North Bend City Hall is officially open to the public

The new building has been in the works for more than 25 years.

By Madeline Coats • July 31, 2019 1:30 am

The new North Bend City Hall was officially opened to the public at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 30.

The building is located east of the downtown area between the North Bend Fire Station and public works shop at 920 SE Cedar Falls. The project has been in progress for more than 25 years.

The new City Hall offers a customer-service oriented environment, according to a press release. Additions include improved security and safety features, a 35-car parking lot and access to Tanner Trail. The structure features one-stop services for city business, such as bill paying, applying for permits and other city business.

Staff moved from the previous city hall at 211 Main Ave. N. and the community economic development building at 126 E. Fourth St. Both offices were closed on Friday, July 26, and Monday July 29, for the move.

“We are excited to be moving to our new building that has been in the works for many years,” Mayor Ken Hearing said. “Having all of our staff together will make it easier for residents to conduct city business and attend city council meetings.”

New council chambers with improved audio and video capabilities also will be included in the building. The City Hall contains a lobby area designed for public events that could potentially be used by community groups as a meeting space.

The 14,000 square foot building houses city departments and administrative offices with offices and cubicles. There also is a 2,000 square foot conference room.

According to a staff report from a North Bend City Council meeting in May 2018, the new City Hall was estimated to cost some $6.7 million. Skyward Construction led the project and began work in June 2018.

North Bend’s previous city hall building is more than 70 years old and has safety issues from years of deterioration, as well as access issues for people with disabilities.

“Our hope is that having a more efficient and convenient location will inspire more people to get involved in government,” Hearing said.