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City staff, commissioners plan Jerry Allen Memorial Skate Park; private donations may fund construction to avoid procurement constraints
Summary
City staff and commissioners discussed plans to develop the Jerry Allen Memorial Skate Park. Officials said a new concrete pad is ready for relocated equipment, and that they will seek private donations or public‑private matches to finance a larger concrete park to avoid procurement and purchasing constraints that could slow a city-led project.
Commissioners and city staff discussed plans for the Jerry Allen Memorial Skate Park and options to fund and build the facility.
Corey briefed the commission on a recently poured concrete pad on the south side of the park and said the plan is to relocate existing skate equipment onto that pad and to refresh and repaint metal ramps and rails. "There's a nice new concrete pad there that we're gonna be, relocating the old skate park equipment to. So we'll basically have 2 skate parks in 1 there," Corey said.
Commissioner Saragusa and others discussed fundraising options. Staff advised that if the city fully procures the project it must follow city purchasing procedures and state law, which can add time and restrict flexibility. To avoid those constraints, commissioners and staff said they will pursue private donations or a public‑private match and develop a schedule and specifications that meet the community’s expectations. "I think there's groups that would, if we are able to solicit donations, would take those donations and then not be bound by the same rules we are to finish this the way that you guys would like to finish it," the mayor said.
The commission directed staff and a small group of commissioners (including Commissioner Baker and former Commissioner Ron Jansen) to work with Corey to pursue fundraising, refine plans and return with a timeline for construction and dedication. No city-funded appropriation or procurement action was approved at the session.
