Council hears mayoral report on sales‑tax renewal outreach; city tours Army Reserve Center as potential senior center

During the Feb. 2 meeting the mayor and city administrator updated council on outreach plans for upcoming sales‑tax renewal propositions and reported a site tour of the local Army Reserve Center as a potential location for a senior center.

The mayor said the sales‑tax renewal committee has scheduled multiple presentations to local groups through February and March and is preparing informational flyers and short presentations. The Industrial Development Authority pledged $2,500 toward each proposition campaign and the chamber has pledged $7,500 for both a capital improvement and a transportation sales tax campaign; staff said the committee aims to raise up to $20,000 per campaign.

City staff said they toured the Army Reserve Center with committee and federal/state representatives; the facility was described as well maintained and having open space and heated shop areas suitable for activities and storage. Staff indicated the federal government and then the state would have first opportunity to purchase the property, followed by local governments, and that the parcel is about 4.5 acres.

Council discussed what city staff and council members may do in campaign outreach. Staff and counsel reiterated that the city cannot spend public funds to advocate for or against ballot propositions but may provide informational material; councilmembers acting in their individual capacities may donate or advocate. Staff said they will continue informational presentations but cannot use city postage, city print or similar resources for advocacy.

The council did not take any formal vote on acquisition or campaign financing at the meeting; staff said they will return details and any further steps as opportunities develop.