FORT RIDGELY STATE PARK - Three organizations and a few other people discussed a proposed $700,000 Fort Ridgely remodeling project Monday at the golf course chalet.
The meeting got intense for some people.
The mood began cordially as Jeff Sieve of the New Ulm Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regional office apologized for the way the project has been handled.
"We didn't think there would be such opposition," Sieve said. "We fully expect big future changes at the park like better service and more efficiency. We're still planning the project. No bids have been let yet."
Sieve thanked the Friends of Fort Ridgely for its involvement that included raising money several years ago to keep the park operating after the Legislature cut funding to the park.
District 21B Rep. Paul Torkelson of rural St. James said the joint project with the DNR, MHS (Minnesota Historical Society) and NHS (Nicollet County Historical Society) was hurried but that there was still time to move ahead to a brighter future.
District 23B Rep. Terry Morrow of St. Peter said the way he understands the 2010 Bonding Bill language, the MHS has more flexibility with its $350,000 project appropriation than the DNR.
Tom Ellig of MHS said if the money is not used for the project over the next year, it may be lost to another project.
As designed, the project would move the park entrance point to the commissary building where DNR offices would be added, along with roof, insulation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning and septic system upgrades.
Project proponents said it would cut operating cost with energy savings, allowing the commissary to be open year-around instead of from Memorial Day through Labor Day and by appointment.
Friends of Fort Ridgely board members oppose moving the park entrance from its location in a 30-year-old pre-fabricated building.
Cost and adding parking lots to the designated Civil War era site are among the biggest sticking points.
"Five-hundred thousand dollars for building improvements?" said Friends board member Dave Nelson. "Isn't this why we're (the State of Minnesota budget) in trouble?"
Wendy Haavisto, representing Sen. Dennis Frederickson, said legislators try to control costs as best they can.
New Ulm historian John LaBatte said parking lots should not be added to the historical site.
Ellig and Sieve said by working together, a project could be created that would be agreeable to all.
(Fritz Busch can be e-mailed at fbusch@nujournal.com).