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City manager updates council on downtown redevelopment and ADA deadline; McCroy Building owner asked to provide funding documentation
Summary
The city manager briefed the council on events, a Community Project Funding proposal to address structurally compromised buildings on Roanoke Avenue, Macquarie Building financing talks, budget steps for FY27, and a city deadline to comply with ADA website rules by April 26, 2027. The owner of the McCroy Building was asked by council for documentation of funding applications and the manager said staff can request ledgers under the city's agreement.
The city manager delivered a broad administrative report covering community programming, downtown redevelopment, capital projects and compliance deadlines.
On downtown redevelopment, the manager said Director Ashley Thomas submitted a downtown public safety and redevelopment proposal to Congressman Don Davis for Community Project Funding. The proposal targets structurally compromised buildings on Roanoke Avenue in the 200 block that are currently under demolition order.
On the Macquarie Building, the manager reported the project team was in talks with two banks interested in financing; underwriting and construction would begin after bank approvals and any necessary board decisions. The manager said progress is ongoing but slower than hoped.
The manager outlined the FY27 budget timeline: departments have submitted budget requests; staff will conduct budget work sessions in April; a recommended budget presentation is expected in May followed by the required public hearing and adoption in June. He also said staff will solicit proposals to meet ADA website accessibility requirements and aims to be compliant by April 26, 2027.
During follow-up discussion, a council member asked whether documentation about the McCroy Building developer’s funding applications could be provided. The chair (mayor) referenced Mr. Davis as the owner of the McCroy Building and asked whether he had shown proof of applications for funding. The city manager replied staff had requested information, had not yet received it, and that under the city’s agreement staff has the right to request ledgers showing where monies have been sent. "Under our agreement, we have every right to ask for that information," the manager said, adding he would obtain the records.
The council received these updates and no formal action was taken; staff indicated they will continue to monitor financing for downtown projects and to bring budget and procurement items forward as needed.
