Council directs staff to pursue owner-supplied 'wave' canopy for LC Stevens amphitheater

Councilmembers reviewed six canopy styles for a proposed LC Stevens amphitheater and directed staff to pursue a procurement approach in which the city purchases a canopy and quotes are sought for contractor installation of foundations, concrete and electrical work.

Council favored the "wave" design and confirmed a 30-by-30 canopy with an approximate 10-foot front overhang. Staff described two procurement options: (1) a full public bid bundling canopy and site work, which delays ordering the canopy until after bid award, or (2) an owner-supplied, contractor-installed approach that allows the city to place an order (and secure a production slot) before final installation bidding. Council chose option two to speed delivery and reduce lead time; staff noted purchasing thresholds require a second quote if a vendor is sole-source and that state purchasing thresholds apply for quote requirements.

Council also discussed roofing material (metal preferred for wind resistance) and minimal LED stage lighting under the canopy. Staff will return with engineered plans, a rendering, and vendor quotes so council can authorize purchase and order placement.

Why it matters: The decision prioritizes faster delivery and reduces schedule risk by allowing staff to secure the canopy production slot ahead of installation contracting while preserving public oversight of installation costs.

What’s next: Staff will produce engineering plans, obtain required quotes or state-bid documentation, and bring a purchase/order authorization and installation quotes to council.