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Preston council holds off on design work for 20-acre ‘hospital’ site after costly estimates
Summary
After reviewing two RFP responses for a 20-acre city parcel near the golf course, councilors agreed to delay hiring a firm for design work after firms quoted roughly $90,000 and $150,000 and one estimated a full recreation center at about $52 million.
Councilors on the Preston City Council voted to hold action on responses to a request for proposals to study development of a 20-acre city parcel near the municipal golf course.
City staff and council members said two design firms submitted introductory proposals; the firms declined to provide schematic drawings prior to being hired and gave initial professional-fee estimates of roughly $90,000 and $150,000. One firm told the council an example community rec center could be about 40,000 square feet and estimated construction at approximately $52,000,000, a figure that drew audible concern from members.
"I almost had a third heart attack," said Todd Thomas, who led the RFP update, after hearing the multimillion-dollar figure. Councilors emphasized that the city lacks funds for large-scale construction and would likely need to pursue partnerships or a recreation district to fund building and ongoing maintenance.
Staff said the RFP responses cost the city nothing and that holding the firms’ contact information would allow the city to revisit their proposals next year or if county discussions on facilities move forward. Councilor Thomas moved to table the item; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote with council members agreeing to delay hiring until next year and to monitor related county decisions.
The council’s action leaves the RFPs in place but postpones any commitment to pay for schematic design or construction until budget and partnership options are clearer.
