The disaster relief agency was itself a disaster victim: the headquarters of the Minneapolis Area Chapter of the American Red Cross suffered from sick building syndrome. As a result, American Red Cross employees were camped in temporary offices, scattered through the downtown area. Both efficiency and morale were suffering.

Nelson, Tietz & Hoye was brought in to help devise an expeditious, cost-effective solution. The challenges were formidable: disposing of an existing property with an uninhabitable building, finding an appropriate site in Minneapolis for this non-profit agency, making a tight budget work and navigating through, at times, a contentious political environment.

The decision to build on a new location ultimately was deemed the best plan by all involved - the agency's local board, American Red Cross national executives and Minneapolis city officials; customized space would best support the efficient operation of American Red Cross functions. The existing facility was sold, and everyone involved is pleased with how the process was handled.

"American Red Cross already had a solid team and process in place," says Russ Nelson, Nelson, Tietz & Hoye. "Our job was to help the team look more creatively at possible solutions for some fairly daunting challenges. We also ensured a thorough evaluation of workplace and service trends to assist in designing functional space that would meet their long-term needs."

Nelson, Tietz & Hoye utilized its negotiating skills and knowledge of the real estate market and its key players, thus contributing to the successful resolution of the situation for American Red Cross.

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