Council approves Menard Center turf contract; one member recuses on family business tie

The Wasilla City Council voted to approve Resolution Serial Number 25‑26 and accompanying action memorandum AM 25‑43, awarding a contract not to exceed $348,539.51 to FieldTurf Northwest Incorporated for the Menard Center turf replacement and authorizing a $23,539.51 intra‑fund transfer for additional materials and grading. Council Member Schmidt moved the motion and Council Member Graham seconded. The roll‑call vote passed with Council Members Cottle, Graham, Schmidt and Velock in support; Council Member Crafton voted no and Council Member Rubio recused herself because AM 25‑43 disclosed that a company owned by her father, Big Dipper Construction, "may serve as a subcontractor on the turf replacement project" and that under WMC 2.01.010 she is considered to have a financial interest. During discussion, Recreation Services Director Scott Bell said the ongoing feasibility study for the Menard Center will assess broader community needs and whether a future full‑size turf field or other options would be warranted. Bell described the feasibility work as evaluating multiple potential uses for the facility. Distinguishing items: the council took formal action to award the contract and the transfer; Rubio recused herself and exited the dais for the item. The resolution and contract award were adopted by roll call; Crafton recorded opposition. No amendments to the award amount were recorded during the meeting. Ending: The approved contract and transfer authorize project work to proceed under the terms in AM 25‑43; the feasibility study remains ongoing and staff said it will inform longer‑term facility decisions.