Franklin City Manager previews up to $14.3 million bond package for armory, radios and courthouse work

City Manager Rosalind Oglesby told the Franklin City Council the city is preparing a draft legislative packet and a financing plan that would allow issuance of general-obligation bonds or notes not to exceed $14,300,000 to complete several capital projects.

Oglesby said the borrowing would cover projects including the armory (gym) renovation, radio upgrades and courthouse renovations. She said the armory project is about 95% complete and estimated at roughly $10.4 million; the armory is expected to go out to bid in November on remaining work. The city previously borrowed roughly half of the proposed total and the $14.3 million cap is intended to close out outstanding project obligations while allowing flexibility if final estimates vary.

Oglesby outlined the schedule: a financing-options presentation will be provided in November and the council will hold a public hearing on Dec. 9 followed by consideration of issuance. She cautioned that final borrowing needs will depend on design and material-cost fluctuations and noted consultants are optimistic that current material pricing could allow the projects to remain within the proposed cap.

The manager also updated the council on infrastructure projects: Reiner Street waterline and service design work is complete with construction slated to start early next year followed by asphalt overlay; Blackwater Park turnover to the city is anticipated in early 2025; and Poplar Springs signage and Southview cemetery cleanup are underway.

If the council wants to change the proposed cap or add priorities to its legislative packet, members were asked to provide feedback ahead of the November meeting so staff can finalize the packet for delegate engagement.