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Council signals support for full Ross Common rehabilitation and asks staff to add it to CIP
Summary
After public comment and a robust council exchange, staff heard council preference for a full replacement of Ross Common (est. up to $1M) and was directed to include the project in the five‑year CIP for phasing and funding analysis, while also exploring partner contributions and staffing needs.
The council devoted an extended discussion to possible rehabilitation of Ross Common, reviewing options that ranged from minor maintenance to a full replacement estimated up to $1,000,000 (including consultant and construction costs). A resident representing neighbors said she had submitted 255 signatures urging immediate action and offered to assist with private fundraising; the council debated whether to fund the work from town reserves, pursue a bond or tax measure, or seek partner contributions.
Public Works Director Rich (introduced in the transcript as Rich Subnish) noted the civic center and other capital priorities will substantially reduce capital reserves by 2029, so the timetable and phasing matter. “It would require hiring consultants, landscape architects, developing bid documents and a lot of public input,” Rich said, warning that full replacement could require a 12–18 month construction/establishment period. Several council members said they support a full replacement and directed staff to add the full rehab project to the draft five‑year CIP while developing phasing, funding scenarios, and staffing plans for implementation and public engagement.
