Brentwood officials seek proposals for civic center redevelopment and mixed-use facility

The Brentwood Board of Aldermen convened on January 21, 2025, to discuss a proposal aimed at reimagining the city’s civic center. The meeting focused on the potential redevelopment of the area to accommodate a new police department facility, replace the outdated post office, and create a mixed-use development that combines civic and retail activities.

Alderman Plovkup initiated the discussion by expressing gratitude to the city attorney and city administrator for drafting the proposal. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the city’s current debt service and financial commitments but emphasized the importance of exploring innovative ideas for the future of the civic center. The proposal invites visionary developers to submit their ideas, with no financial commitment from the city unless a suitable proposal is received.

A motion was made to direct city staff to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to gauge developer interest. Alderman Lockmuller clarified that he intended to refer to a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) instead. The board members engaged in a discussion about the potential involvement of the local school district in the redevelopment, with Alderman Harder noting that there had been no recent communication from the district regarding interest in the project.

Alderman Gold raised concerns about relocating the police department entirely to the new development, suggesting that a smaller presence, such as a satellite substation, might be more appropriate. The discussion highlighted the need for flexibility in the proposal to attract developers while maintaining the city’s operational needs.

Alderman Theis and Alderman Wege expressed support for the initiative, emphasizing the importance of clear communication about the project’s goals to avoid misunderstandings. The meeting concluded with a consensus to proceed with the proposal, allowing the city to explore potential redevelopment opportunities without immediate financial implications.

Overall, the Board of Aldermen's meeting underscored a proactive approach to urban development in Brentwood, aiming to revitalize the civic center while inviting community and developer engagement. The next steps will involve issuing the RFQ and awaiting responses by the end of March.