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Council approves feasibility study for possible new building at Blakey Park; historical society supports limited scope
Summary
The council authorized a $38,913 contract with MIG Inc. to study options for an additional building in the back parking area of Blakey Park after the Westminster Historical Society endorsed a scope that preserves historic structures. Vote was 3–2.
The Westminster City Council voted 3–2 on May 13 to approve a professional services agreement with MIG Inc. not to exceed $38,913 to conduct a feasibility study (scope 3) for a possible new building at Blakey Park. The study will focus on the park’s rear parking area and analyze access, circulation, parking capacity, conceptual massing and a rough order‑of‑magnitude cost estimate.
The ad‑hoc committee and representatives of the Westminster Historical Society told the council they favor an approach that preserves all existing historic buildings and outdoor displays while exploring whether a new structure can be sited in the parking area without compromising the historic fabric. The historical society’s representative, Don Anderson, told the council scope 3 was preferred because it respects the historic buildings and uses the underutilized parking area for possible new construction.
Staff described the three‑phase scope for MIG (data collection and stakeholder meetings; site documentation and analysis; conceptual design and cost estimate). The engagement includes stakeholder meetings, preliminary site design and a rough order‑of‑magnitude estimate so the city can determine whether to pursue a larger capital project.
Council debate centered on fiscal prudence and timing. Some members expressed concern about commissioning another study while the city’s capital resources are constrained and other studies (Miriam Warren building conversion and Rose Center options) remain unsettled. Proponents said the study is a low‑cost way to assess options and avoid later surprises, and that focusing the study on the back parking area reduces risk to historic structures.
Action: staff was authorized to execute the MIG Inc. agreement and to allocate the contract funds to the park maintenance contractual account for FY 2026–27. The project will return to council with the study results.
Provenance: council discussion and vote during item 5.3; Historical Society endorsement noted in meeting conversations.
