Council approves master plan contract for Schuldemeier property and Veterans Memorial, 5–2

The Loveland City Council voted 5–2 on July 28 to adopt Resolution 61, authorizing the city manager to execute an agreement with American StructurePoint, Inc., for a master plan covering the Schuldemeier property (about 4 acres) and the adjacent Veterans Memorial.

"So, tonight is the resolution regarding advancing a master plan for the Schuldemeier and the Veterans Memorial," City Manager Dave Kennedy said when he introduced the proposal and explained the rationale that a formal master plan would position the city to pursue larger grants and help set designs for passive recreational use. Kennedy said the site has a number of restrictions (Clean Ohio, floodplain, conservancy easements) that require careful study and public engagement.

Council members debated whether the expense should be prioritized now or held until it is budgeted and partly grant-funded. Council Member Hazel Baker and Council Member Hamlin expressed concern that the project was not previously prioritized or fully budgeted and suggested waiting or refining scope; other members, including Councilman Goodyear and Vice Mayor Bateman, argued that a completed master plan is often required to secure larger construction grants and opens funding pathways. Mayor (presiding) said the city has funds available from unspent items in the budget and that staff believed grant prospects would improve with an adopted plan.

The resolution passed with five votes in favor and two opposed. Staff said the contract would span fiscal years 2026 and 2027 with multiple public engagement steps, and that construction contracts would be separate decisions if and when projects move forward.