Commission says quotes for downtown splash pad are within budget but flags homelessness concerns

City staff told the March 13 commission meeting that bids and quotes for a proposed downtown splash pad are close to the $375,000 amount the commission put in this year’s budget.

City Manager staff said they have obtained multiple quotes and are evaluating next steps. “We have quotes that are within very close to the amount that was budgeted for this year, which was 375,000,” a staff member said.

Several commissioners urged staff to consider parallel needs — notably outreach and services for people experiencing homelessness — before finalizing a location. One commissioner said the city should not delay a supportive project for downtown businesses but should ensure homelessness‑related needs are considered and, where appropriate, coordinate both efforts.

Commissioners and staff also discussed private‑public partnership options. A commissioner said she had received calls from community partners willing to help fund the splash pad and suggested setting up a designated account for donations or partnerships to accelerate the project.

Staff said they had begun outreach with downtown property owners and county partners to discuss recurring maintenance, anticipated operating needs and potential locations. The city will provide a more detailed update at the next regular agenda meeting, staff said.

Why it matters: The splash pad is a visible downtown amenity already included in the budget; commissioners’ questions link the project to broader community priorities including maintenance costs and services for people experiencing homelessness.