Tamarac commission approves $486,115 design task order for 400‑meter track over mayor’s objections

Mayor Michelle J. Gomez cast the lone vote against a resolution authorizing task authorization number 26‑10D to Carnahan, Procter & Cross Inc. for design services for a proposed Tamarac Park 400‑meter track and multipurpose center replacement, arguing the city should pursue a much smaller initial feasibility study before committing larger sums. The commission approved the task order, $486,115, by a 4–1 vote.

The item came off the consent agenda for separate discussion after repeated public comments questioned the project's $5 million cost estimate and urged fiscal caution amid uncertain state revenue projections. Resident speakers including Carol Mendelson and Andrew Bossert called for postponement or a phased approach; Patty Lynn urged postponement and recommended partnering with nearby school facilities to save money.

City Manager (name not specified) and Earl Henry, interim public services director, said a phased approach is standard practice: the consultant will first assess whether a full IAAF/NCAA‑compliant track and associated facilities can physically fit on the site, then provide design options. Henry said existing grant funding for lighting and other upgrades remains active but may require an extension.

Mayor Gomez proposed a friendly amendment to limit the initial contract to an $8,000 determination study to confirm fit and feasibility before authorizing subsequent phases, saying the larger task order risks piecemeal commitments that drive costs upward. The mayor said she has previously felt "entrapped" by phased approvals that lead to unplanned follow‑on expenses. The mayor’s amendment was not accepted and the full task order was returned to the roll call.

Commissioner Patterson and other supporters said staff would proceed cautiously and that the initial design work is needed to determine realistic costs, site constraints such as parking, and whether the multipurpose center should be renovated instead. Patterson urged that the consultant consider all nearby properties and potential shared‑use agreements before design proceeds.

The roll call was: Commissioner Daniel, yes; Mayor Michelle J. Gomez, no; Commissioner Patterson, yes; Vice Mayor Bolton, yes; Commissioner Wright, yes. Motion passed 4–1.

The commission did not adopt additional binding conditions during the vote; staff said site‑plan review and future phases will address traffic, parking, maintenance and funding sources. Questions left unresolved at the meeting included an itemized estimate of ongoing maintenance costs and whether stadium seating, adjusted restroom capacity, or parking lot reconstruction would be required to host formal meets. Staff said those issues will be part of later design phases.

The commission is expected to receive the consultant’s initial feasibility findings before any contract work that requires construction funds or commitments.