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Madeira council tables contract with Urban Fast Forward for downtown planning
Summary
Council discussed a proposed six‑month consulting contract with Urban Fast Forward to develop a long‑range downtown vision, heard public support from the Chamber of Commerce, and voted to table the item for later consideration. The vote to table and related discussion occurred Feb. 9.
Council members discussed but ultimately tabled a proposed consulting contract with Urban Fast Forward to produce a long‑term vision for downtown Madeira.
City Manager Michael Norton‑Smith summarized the agreement as a second phase following the city’s 2023 Comprehensive Plan, saying the work would be "community‑driven," include public vetting meetings and architectural renderings, and take "about six months" with benchmarks and deliverables. Norton‑Smith said the effort is intended to shape development and guide property owners for the next 15–20 years.
David Peterson, executive director of the Madeira Chamber of Commerce, told the council the Chamber "is in full support of Resolution 13‑26 and downtown planning," saying developers are showing interest and calling the project a "terrific timing and opportunity." He said the Chamber looks forward to collaborating with Urban Fast Forward.
Council members spoke in favor of the concept but chose not to act. Chad Shaffer said the timing is right as downtown construction wraps up, and Ramzi Takieddine urged that the city use "all their resources and tools," citing collaboration with the Chamber as an example. Logan Junger said he supports broad public input and that Urban Fast Forward's prior work made them an appropriate choice. Mayor Tom Henning said Madeira is worth the investment.
A motion to approve Resolution 13‑26 was made by Logan Junger and seconded by Jodi Whitted, DSW, MSSW, but council instead voted 7‑0 to table the item. The motion to table was recorded as carried at the Feb. 9 meeting.
No schedule for reconsideration or additional direction to staff was stated on the record during the meeting. The item remains on the council’s agenda for future action.
