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Council authorizes RFP for Nance Farm renovation, approves Phase 1 budget of $4M in split vote
Summary
Council voted 4–2 to authorize the city manager to issue an RFP for Phase 1 of the Nance Farm renovation (historic house restoration, new art center, fencing, parking and accessibility) with a Phase 1 allocation of $4 million (staff cited $3M HOT funds and $1M from a prior bond sale). Staff said design/planning costs were about $583,500 and estimated total project costs at roughly $7M across phases.
The DeSoto City Council authorized Jan. 6 the city manager to issue a request for bids for Phase 1 of the Nance Farm renovation after a contentious vote that passed 4–2.
Staff described Phase 1 work as restoration of the historic main house, construction of a new art center, masonry perimeter fencing, site enhancements, parking and accessibility improvements; bid alternates include HVAC upgrades and milk-barn restoration. Staff said prior design and planning costs totaled approximately $583,500 and that the recommended Phase 1 allocation for FY2026 is $4,000,000, comprised of an estimated $3,000,000 from hotel occupancy-tax (HOT) funds and $1,000,000 from a FY2025 bond sale.
City staff emphasized that authorization to issue an RFP does not obligate the city to a construction award and is intended to validate competitive pricing and return to council with award recommendations and a funding strategy. Mayor Pro Tem Crystal Chisholm asked whether the $4,000,000 estimate accounts for inflation and rising construction prices; staff said architects have updated estimates and that adjustments are included.
The motion to authorize the RFP passed by roll call after some confusion over the voice vote and was recorded as passing 4–2. Council members who voted in favor (as recorded) included Mayor Rachel Proctor, Council Member Ken Waters, Council Member Andre Byrd Sr., and Council Member Deborah North; Mayor Pro Tem Crystal Chisholm and Council Member Perrette Parker recorded "No." Staff will return to council with recommended award and funding options after receiving bids.
