Horton pledges $2 million for Hall Road recreation complex; council ratifies MOU

The Westminster City Council ratified a memorandum of understanding with Horton that commits a $2 million corporate contribution toward the Hall Road Recreation complex and establishes terms for donation handling, public recognition, and project oversight.

City Administrator Bronson read the MOU’s principal terms: Horton’s total intended donation is $2,000,000, with an initial signature payment followed by $200,000 annually in 2025–2028. The MOU specifies that checks will be made payable to the Foothills Community Foundation, noted for the Westminster Park Fund, and confirms the gift is tax deductible. Horton will be recognized as an exclusive corporate partner for specified outdoor recreation elements and will be allowed one representative on the oversight committee for the outdoor and future indoor recreation center.

Council and staff clarified how residents and businesses can donate to the Westminster Park Fund via the Foothills Community Foundation and the city's recreation web page. Staff said the project will initially open with five fields (one larger competition field and four fields sized for 12‑and‑under play), temporary restrooms and concessions will be used if permanent facilities lag, and permanent concessions/bathrooms are funded in part by an LWCF grant.

Bronson and project staff said site grubbing was nearly complete and that the fields are likely to be usable in spring (final playing readiness depends on turf establishment and weather). With the council’s vote to ratify the MOU, staff said the city will begin recognizing the Horton contribution in project materials and continue construction planning and fundraising.