Stanton Center renovation draws heated debate over scope, LED gym floor and phased work

The Annapolis City Council spent prolonged deliberation on June 2 over the planned renovation of the Stanton Community Center, focusing on whether to prioritize structural and plumbing repairs or a high‑profile electronic LED gym floor the administration and some state lawmakers have backed.

Council members and staff agreed the building needs major work. Director Rosalind Johnson summarized the program: “As we touch a particular space, those items that need to be addressed in that space will be addressed,” and said architects and structural engineers are currently completing design and feasibility analysis.

Nut graf: The debate centered on sequencing: several council members urged fixing the roof, replacing failing plumbing and remedying sewage backups before installing a costly LED floor. Other members and the mayor’s supporters argued for moving on the floor as part of a phased project using state earmarks and planned bonds.

Key points from the meeting - Scope and sequencing: Staff said phase‑by‑phase work is underway and that the project team is examining whether renovation should include raising portions of the gym, adding bleachers and reconfiguring circulation and restrooms. Staff emphasized the project is still in the design phase and costs are estimates until bids are received. - LED floor debate: The proposal discussed by staff and supporters includes a modular LED floor that can display lines and graphics for multiple sports and activities. Staff said LED floor panels are replaceable and that “the maintenance is actually less than traditional wooden floors” in many respects, and that lead times for the floor are long. Opponents said the LED floor is a luxury if core infrastructure — roof, plumbing and ADA circulation — remains in poor condition. - Funding and grants: Council discussion referenced $1.2 million in state earmark requests and a proposed $4 million city allocation in the mayor’s budget. Several council members said staff must show which improvements will be completed under those funds, and in what order, before the city commits to the LED floor.

What was decided: The council approved related CIP language (as amended on the floor) and asked staff to ensure the phase‑1 scope explicitly addresses the facility condition assessment items identified in 2021. Staff and the consultant will deliver detailed scope and cost estimates for the next meeting; the council asked that the state grant funds be used to address the condition‑assessment priorities in the first phase.

Why it matters: Stanton Center is a community facility used for youth programs and recreation in a low‑income neighborhood; council members stressed that structural and public‑health fixes must not be delayed while staff and the council evaluate higher‑cost amenities.

Ending: Council members asked staff for a clear phased plan and line‑item estimates ahead of final budget action so the city and state funds can be deployed without delay.