Finance committee recommends $27,496 design contract for Welcome Garden

At the July 2 finance committee meeting, Assembly member Waddell moved that the committee recommend the assembly award the Welcome Garden 35% design and cost-estimate contract for $27,496; the committee approved the recommendation by voice vote.

Manager Deech and engineers explained the scope and options. Deech said engineers identified features (for example a fountain) that would significantly increase cost if included and that the 35% design phase would produce the first meaningful cost estimates. "At 35%, that's when we'll see the first cost estimates for it," Deech said, and staff said they would return two 35% design options with cost estimates within six weeks of a notice to proceed.

Committee members discussed whether the 35% design would include electrical outlets, lighting or a gazebo/stage; the manager said the conceptual plan adopted from the OASIS committee did not clearly include a gazebo in the welcome-garden area and staff would confirm the plan's scope. Tourism Director Bricker (referenced in committee remarks) expressed interest in electrical/lighting accommodations for buskers, and a committee member asked staff to confirm irrigation and stage details before final design decisions.

Why it matters: The award moves the project into a phase that will provide concrete cost estimates for a public-space project that has been discussed by the community and the OASIS committee; the modest design contract is intended to inform subsequent construction budgeting.

Vote and next step: The motion to recommend awarding the 35% design contract for $27,496 passed by voice vote (ayes recorded). Staff will return a 35% design package (two options) and cost estimates for assembly consideration.