A city staff member described plans for a new downtown building adjacent to the Grimm House and the boat-launch parking lot, saying the structure will include loading and service areas facing the launch and a visible piece of public art on the east-facing façade.

The presenter said the building will have an upper-level deck facing Millspur (Festival Street) and a third-story deck on the rear; the third level is intended to house an active tenant such as a restaurant to take advantage of views and good weather. "There is an upper level deck on the front of it facing Mills Spur, facing towards the park," the presenter said.

The presenter told the board the project financing comes from multiple sources: proceeds from a recent property sale in downtown Lake Stevens, an approximately $764,000 state grant, and bond proceeds. The presenter said the city does not expect the project to require any new taxes. The presentation included an estimated schedule: permit submittal by the end of the month, construction starting by the end of summer (staff gave August as an example) and an estimated construction period of roughly eight to 10 months, with the building expected to be open and operational the following year.

Board members asked about exact location; the presenter pointed out the site adjacent to the Grimm House and referred to Millspur/Festival Street and Main Street as nearby references. The presenter also showed renderings indicating the building’s rear would face the boat-launch parking lot and the side would face a small parking lot adjacent to the Grimm House.

No formal action or vote was taken on the design or financing during the meeting; the item was informational. The board asked follow-up questions about financing and confirmed the presentation would move into permitting.

The city staff member said some rooftop and exterior design details are still under consideration and that the project will go through permitting before construction begins. The presentation noted remaining tenant arrangements for nearby city-owned properties but did not change current tenant contracts.

The board did not take a formal vote on the project during this meeting.