Gallatin council extends Project Phoenix exclusivity as mayor urges direction on city hall options

The Gallatin City Council voted unanimously April 15 to authorize the mayor to sign a second amendment extending exclusivity for Project Phoenix while staff and the developer continue design work.

The measure, introduced by Vice Mayor Hayes and seconded by Councilman Fennell, does not commit the city to any construction; it extends the developer’s exclusive negotiating window through September so both sides can complete cost estimates and studies.

Mayor Hayes said the extension does not obligate the city to spend money and that the council must give direction so staff can complete analyses. “There is no scenario in which any money is going to be spent on any construction for city hall or for any other building without it being approved by this body,” the mayor said during discussion.

Resident Michelle Juvants spoke during the meeting’s public-recognition period and urged greater transparency on Project Phoenix costs. “It’s our money that you’re fixing to spend,” she said, pressing the council to present logistics, temporary relocation costs and other expense scenarios for citizens to review.

The mayor told the council staff had briefed members and that the firm working with the city needs direction on whether to prioritize renovating and reusing the current city hall, replacing it with a new building, or pursuing a design that allows subterranean parking to reduce above-ground parking structures. She also reminded council members that the city will need to site Fire Station 1 and eventually a new police department regardless of the city hall decision.

Council members asked for additional briefings and financial comparisons before final decisions. The resolution passed unanimously.

The council next directed staff to continue coordinating with the developer and to return with additional cost detail and policy guidance so members can decide a preferred pathway at a future meeting.