Pembroke’s long awaited public safety complex took a step forward on Monday, when city council members voted to approve entering negotiations with a Bluffton, S.C.-based construction management firm to oversee the approximately $ 6.5 million project. The firm, Fraser Construction, has worked throughout the Southeast, according to its website.

Such firms typically get a percentage of the total construction cost, and it is not uncommon for small governments to hire construction managers to run projects.

Bryan County Schools has long worked with Bill Vickery of Pope Construction on its projects, which in recent years has included the completion of three new elementary schools, the new South Bryan Elementary School near Richmond Hill Middle School. A new Richmond Hill High School is also on the horizon.

As for Pembroke’s public safety complex, it has been in the planning stages since 2000, according to Mayor Judy Cook.

Also Monday, the city set its qualifying dates and fees for the November election, when the mayor and council seats are up.

Qualifying dates are Aug. 19-23. Qualifying fees are $144 for mayor and $72 for council.