Council recommends HCEDC remove concrete specification from Nance Field parking project

The Haslet City Council on Dec. 19 debated whether a HCEDC‑backed parking project at Nance Field should call for a concrete surface and ultimately voted to ask the Haslet Community and Economic Development Corporation (HCEDC) to amend its resolution so the material is described only as "paving."

Staff told the council HCEDC had proposed up to $200,000 for construction of a concrete parking lot at Nance Field. Council members and staff said engineering estimates showed concrete would require substantially more work and cost — staff indicated a concrete option could push the cost above $500,000 — while asphalt would be less expensive and its millings could be reused if removed later.

A councilmember who had requested the item noted the city is conducting a park master plan for Nance Field and said a permanent concrete pad might later be removed if the master plan reconfigures the area. That councilmember and others suggested leaving material unspecified so the city or HCEDC could pursue the most cost‑effective option after receiving bids and examining engineering designs.

A motion was made to recommend HCEDC amend the resolution to remove the material specification and to state only "paving." The motion was seconded; the clerk recorded a vote of four in favor and one opposed, and the motion passed. The council’s action was a recommendation to HCEDC; staff noted council cannot unilaterally change HCEDC’s resolution but can request an amendment.

What happens next: HCEDC will receive the council’s recommendation and may revise its resolution or leave it as submitted. Staff said the budgeted line was for asphalt and that public works and engineering recommended asphalt for cost and reuse advantages. Council members also said they anticipate reviewing design and cost estimates from public works and engineering before selecting the material.

Ending: The council recorded the recommendation and moved on to other park agenda items.