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Commissioners back small‑scale start for botanical gardens and seek non‑city funding for art center
Summary
Commissioners supported a phased botanical gardens project adjacent to the museum using leftover CRA sidewalks funds and urged private sponsorships; they also discussed possible downtown art space (Monroe Hall or Betty Smith) and favored non‑city funding and phased usage.
Commissioner (S3) described plans to develop botanical gardens adjacent to the museum and said sidewalks funded by leftover CRA dollars could be the first phase to spur private fundraising and sponsorship. He argued the garden would grow over time with nonprofit partners and master gardener programs, and would increase museum visitation.
Several commissioners agreed to offer the space and to encourage nonprofits and private sponsors to lead fundraising and initial construction; Commissioner (S5) cautioned that the city should avoid taking on large ongoing maintenance costs if community groups don’t secure sustainable funding.
On the public arts center, commissioners debated locations (Monroe Hall, Betty Smith or another downtown site). While they expressed support for a downtown arts hub, the commission emphasized preference for non‑city funding and suggested a phased approach (temporary space, shared class rooms, then a dedicated facility) to limit immediate budget impacts.
Staff was asked to coordinate with CRA staff, Parks & Recreation and interested groups to pursue sidewalks and sponsorship opportunities and to bring a more detailed funding and operations plan back to the commission.
