Council approves $18,500 for Howard Blackson to prepare interim activation concept plans for potential theater site; Koval votes no

The Santee City Council voted Aug. 13 to appropriate $18,500 from the general‑fund reserve to fund a professional services agreement with urban designer Howard Blackson for interim activation concept plans for a potential theater parcel. The measure passed 4–1, with Councilmember Koval voting no.

City staff described the contract as funding conceptual design services to explore interim activation of an underused parcel identified for a potential theater. During public comment, a speaker identified as Truth criticized the consultant company’s website and described its urbanism rhetoric as inconsistent with local values; the speaker urged that no city funds be used for the consultant. The speaker also read extended critical commentary from the firm’s website, which included national political commentary; the transcript records those remarks as public comment rather than staff findings.

After public comment the council considered the motion; the roll call recorded four aye votes and a single no from Councilmember Koval. The resolution appropriating the funding and authorizing the professional services agreement was adopted; no amendments or conditions to the contract were recorded in the meeting minutes.

Staff did not state a project schedule or deliverable date during the meeting; the appropriation funds conceptual design only and does not authorize construction or additional commitments. The item is recorded in the minutes as item 9 and will be implemented through a professional services agreement administered by the appropriate city department.