City to issue RFP for 4.85-acre 2828 Condit site after EDA discussion

City staff told the Planning Commission on May 14 that the City now owns four parcels totaling 4.85 acres, including the larger 2828 Condit property, and that the Economic Development Authority plans to solicit proposals to determine the best future use.

Community Development Director Ben Harrington said the City previously acquired three residential parcels and then added the larger 2828 property, creating a combined site of 4.85 acres. "The EDA has been discussing potential use of the property and decided to do a request for proposals (RFP) to determine what the best use could be for the property," Harrington said. He added that consultant Bolton & Menk will assist with the RFP process and that staff will run a community survey, hold a town hall anticipated in July and staff a pop-up at Canadian Days before issuing the RFP later this summer.

Harrington emphasized that issuing an RFP does not obligate the City to accept any concept that does not fit its vision. Chair Taelor Johnson said whether a pedestrian bridge advances could affect the development conversation and that different development outcomes are likely depending on that infrastructure decision.

Commissioner Masrud urged consideration of open-space/park needs on the west side of the community and observed that not every parcel must be developed. Commissioners discussed access to trails and the creek that creates a barrier to some nearby park access; Harrington noted both market challenges and design opportunities and said it will be "interesting to see the concepts the City receives."

Next steps for the EDA and staff are to finalize the survey and outreach schedule, run the July town hall and Canadian Days pop-up, then launch the RFP later in the summer. The City will evaluate proposals for fit with the community vision before any contractual commitments are made.