Mexico council approves resolution to seek CDBG funding to demolish Hardin Gym for Presser Arts Center

The Mexico City Council on April 28 approved a resolution authorizing the hiring of Mark Twain Regional Council to pursue Community Development Block Grant funding for demolition of the Hardin Gym on behalf of the Presser Arts Center.

City staff said the council is asking the regional council to prepare a CDBG application after an earlier application was denied. "We feel that their experience in getting grant, awarded money, awarded successfully, expertise in this area, just makes it an an easier and better and more likely process for us," Nathan Liberto, a city staff member, told the council. He also described the step as a "low risk opportunity for us."

The resolution directs city staff to contract for grant-writing and administrative services with Mark Twain Regional Council to seek CDBG funds. City staff told the council the work was put out to bid, that two bids were received, and that one bid was not competitive. Staff said there would be no upfront cost to the city: any grant-management fees if the grant is awarded would be paid from the grant, and Presser would be responsible for additional costs if the grant is not awarded. A council member asked specifically whether the $16,000 cited in discussion would be Presser's responsibility if the grant is not awarded; staff replied that Presser would be "on the hook for everything."

Councilmembers voted to pass the resolution by roll call. The council recorded affirmative votes in support of the resolution.

The item follows a prior application that staff said was denied last year; this action authorizes a new application for the current grant cycle. If the CDBG application is successful, the grant would pay for demolition and include grant-management fees; if the grant is not awarded, Presser would pay the costs discussed in the council meeting. The resolution was read by title and passed on council motion.