City plans major park development amid credit card fee concerns

During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed significant financial and infrastructural developments, including a proposed $5 million capital project for an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system and the rising costs associated with credit card fees incurred by city departments.

The ERP project, anticipated to span two years, is expected to be funded through debt rather than departmental dues. This initiative aims to streamline city operations and improve efficiency, although specific funding mechanisms are still under consideration.

In a related financial discussion, officials highlighted that the city is currently absorbing over $1 million in credit card fees across various departments, including utilities and recreational services. The council revisited a previous recommendation to pass these fees onto end users, a strategy that has only been partially implemented through new parking pay stations. The council is now considering formalizing this approach for other services to alleviate the financial burden on the city.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the Michigan Avenue property site plan, where Director Elgin Hicks presented two options for the development of a new parks and recreation administrative building. The preferred option, which emerged from community feedback, would consolidate staff and city vehicle parking while designating a small area for a future park. This plan aims to enhance neighborhood safety by minimizing traffic through residential areas and includes potential recreational features such as a kayak launch.

The council expressed support for the proposed plan, emphasizing the importance of community input in shaping local infrastructure projects. As discussions continue, officials are keen to finalize plans before committing further resources to design and development.