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Council asked for legal opinion on use of $500k Parkland Acquisition Fund for Brickyard reimbursement
Summary
City staff told the committee the Parkland Acquisition Fund (Fund 456) holds about $500,000 but current rules limit its use to land acquisition. Staff will request a legal opinion on whether the fund can reimburse the General Fund for the Brickyard purchase or be repurposed.
Public Service Director Matt Hiscock told the committee the Auditor identified about one‑half million dollars in the Parkland Acquisition Fund (Fund 456) and that, under present rules, those funds may only be used to acquire parkland. He said the department is seeking a legal opinion (outside counsel) and hopes to have guidance within roughly 30 days on whether the funding can be used to reimburse the General Fund for the Brickyard property purchase or otherwise be repurposed.
Council Member Zach Berger and others asked whether eliminating or repurposing a fund had precedent; Hiscock said there are procedures to abolish funds but the legal opinion would clarify allowable uses and next steps. If the opinion is unfavorable, Hiscock said the balance would remain restricted until a qualifying acquisition need arises. No formal council action was taken at this meeting; staff will return with the legal opinion and recommendations.
