Mt. Vernon council adopts parks master plan, authorizes search for architect for indoor rec center

The Mt. Vernon City Council on Feb. 18 approved a parks master plan for Lincoln and Veterans Parks and voted to begin the procurement process for an indoor recreation center.

Assistant City Manager Nathan McKenna introduced the plan and said it incorporates survey results, public meetings and a feasibility study for an indoor recreation facility. Scott Emmelkamp, project design manager with Planning Design Studio (joining by Zoom), reviewed the consultant’s recommendations and answered council questions about the study’s process and findings. Council Member Joe Gliosci moved to approve the master plan; Council Member Donte Moore seconded and the motion carried unanimously among those present.

The council also granted staff permission to issue a request for proposals for architectural services and to consider hiring a construction-management firm as part of the procurement. McKenna told the council that selecting an architect is the next step toward implementing plan recommendations and starting construction of the indoor facility.

The approval formalizes planning steps that include recommended improvements to park amenities and a feasibility framework for the indoor rec center. The consultant’s materials and the feasibility study were provided to council members in advance, and Emmelkamp answered questions about community input and cost-estimating methodology.

Council members did not request further public hearings on the master plan; next steps recorded in the meeting minutes are issuance of the request for proposals and selection of design/construction teams. No vote totals were withheld: motions passed with Yeas: Gliosci, Moore, Young and Lewis; Absent: Botch.