Planning Commission backs FY2025–2031 capital improvement program; DDA adds funding for two downtown projects

On March 11, 2025, the Mason Planning Commission approved Resolution 2025-06 recommending that the City Council adopt the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for fiscal years 2025–2031.

City Manager Stewart updated the commission that the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) met on Monday and decided to increase contributions to two projects in the draft CIP. Stewart said the DDA "would like to contribute some more funds to 2 of the projects." The DDA will increase its contribution to the West Sycamore Street project (the alley that runs behind Maple Street Mall and the Courthouse Pub) from $80,000 to $150,000 to support an analysis of whether parking or other improvements could be added. Stewart also said the DDA will add $100,000 for Lee Austin Park improvements, noting a goal to add a restroom; Stewart said that change brings the Lee Austin Park project to $550,000 as shown in the updated budget spreadsheet.

Commissioners discussed the update but did not raise substantive objections. A commissioner moved to approve Resolution 2025-06 and Commissioner Sharon seconded; the commission approved the recommendation by voice vote. The commission recorded no roll-call tally in the transcript.

The CIP recommendation updates funding sources in the draft plan to reflect the DDA contributions; the Planning Commission sent the document forward as a recommendation to City Council for adoption. The transcript notes that additional corrections to the report were pending and that staff will finalize scope and public engagement on corridor and parks planning in the coming weeks.