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Alburnett council reviews scaled-back park design and flags $400,000 estimate pending funding approval
Summary
Council received updated park renderings that scale back landscaping while keeping a walking trail, two pickleball courts and a pavilion; staff warned the $400,000 estimate depends on LMI funds and confirmation that local-option sales tax can be used for the project.
City staff and a consultant presented an updated park concept during the Feb. 13 council meeting that pares back landscaping, retains a walking trail and proposes two pickleball courts, a pavilion with two unisex restrooms and a drinking fountain, and a playground with an embedded hill slide.
Rebecca and the consultant from HR Green told the council the design removes a previously shown grain-silo feature and scales back high-end items such as a concession-style serving area. The pavilion is a preengineered kit that would include six picnic tables; the firm suggested bidding the half basketball court as an add-alternate so the city can choose the option later.
Staff presented a revised project budget of approximately $400,000 but said that figure is contingent on the availability of LMI (low-to-moderate income) funds and on a legal determination about whether 50% of local-option sales-tax proceeds earmarked for infrastructure can be used for this project. The mayor noted the FY25 budget included $350,000 drawn largely from local-option sales tax but asked the city attorney to confirm allowable uses before proceeding. The council expects a more complete packet and a March action item to send the project out for bid if funding is confirmed.
Council also discussed surfacing options for courts (asphalt base with specialized surfacing on top) and opportunities for volunteer tree plantings or sponsorships to help manage costs. Staff said they will finalize pricing and return to the council for formal consideration and possible bid authorization in March.
