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Council greenlights Long Pier extension and stabilization after split debate over costs
Summary
Geneva City Council voted June 3 to authorize a contract for improvements that include stabilizing the existing Long Pier and building an L‑shaped extension to increase ADA access, after debate over rising bid costs and municipal debt.
City Council voted on June 3 to authorize a contract to stabilize Geneva’s existing Long Pier and to build an L‑shaped extension that councilors and staff said would improve ADA access and allow greater public fishing and lakefront use.
City staff presented the item as a rebid of a larger marina plan. Bids for a full marina came in far above earlier estimates, so the city rebid a reduced‑scope package focused on stabilization and an extension. The city manager and Director Venuti said available funding includes a mix of grants and previously approved bonded funds; staff said the project originally had a $3.8 million bid, the city held roughly $2.7 million and council in recent months approved up to $2.0 million more to cover cost increases.
Council debate was sharp. Councilor Lehi argued the city should use the funds to reduce overall indebtedness, saying, “one of the goals I'd put forward ... is to reduce our indebtedness by 50% over the next 5 years.” Councilor Bridal and Councilor Lavin opposed advancing the extension, calling it additional long‑term maintenance and an unwarranted new asset given the city’s fiscal constraints. Councilor Gillette and Councilor Petropolis supported the project as a community amenity that would improve lake access for neighbors who don’t own boats and said stabilization is already needed to keep the existing pier safe.
Staff explained that some grant funds can only be used for the extension portion and that other bonded funds would be used for the stabilization work; staff also said state approval of the change in scope is required for some grant reimbursement. Director of Public Works described the stabilization needs as erosion and scouring beneath sections of the pier and said some sidewalk panels are being held in place by the railing.
Councilor Gillette moved the contract authorization; Councilor Grimaldi seconded. After roll call, council approved the contract authorization. Councilors voting against the measure cited long‑term maintenance costs and broader fiscal priorities.
Ending: The authorization allows the city to proceed with stabilization and the L‑shaped extension under the rebid scope; staff said state approvals and grant rules will dictate eligible uses of certain funds and that further project details and timelines will follow.
