Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Parks topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Council approves resubmission of water‑access grant after debate over cost and safety
Summary
Windsor Heights council voted 4–1 to resubmit an application for a Mid‑American ICON water‑access grant despite council concern about a roughly $882,000 project estimate, TIFF funding use and safety/rescue capacity. Staff will submit the application before the deadline.
Windsor Heights — The City Council voted to resubmit an application for a Mid‑American ICON water‑access grant after a councilmember raised concerns about the project’s utility, cost and public‑safety implications.
A councilmember said the central question was whether Walnut Creek would consistently support activities such as kayaking, fishing or water play, adding: “I have concerns about the actual utility of the water access area” and whether the site would see regular use to justify taxpayer investment. The member also questioned using TIF funding for the project while other infrastructure needs remain.
City staff explained the application history and funding mechanics. Staff said the city has applied twice before and that the current application would commit the city to a local match if awarded; staff described the city’s commitment on the application as $50,000 with the likely actual match closer to $70,000 to $80,000 depending on final design. Staff also said the full grant award, if funded at maximum, would be $125,000 and that overall project budgets have risen, producing the larger $882,000 estimate mentioned during discussion. Staff added the grant would be submitted under the city’s urban renewal/TIF plan if council authorizes the resubmission.
Council debated public‑safety preparedness should the water access be used for recreation. The councilmember who opposed moving forward noted concerns about rescue equipment and training, and whether the city’s police and fire departments have capacity for water rescues without additional investment. Staff acknowledged those concerns and said mutual aid agreements would still be necessary.
A motion to resubmit the application was moved and seconded. The council approved the motion 4–1; Councilmember Susan Skus cast the lone no vote. Staff said the grant deadline is imminent and requested direction to apply.
What’s next: Staff will submit the application if awarded and notify council of any required local match or next steps. The council did not authorize construction; award of funding would trigger follow‑up design and budgeting decisions.
