Meeting Summary
The city council held a conference to discuss the RDG Main Street campus master plan for the former Griffin Hospital site, exploring concepts for urban development and the potential inclusion of Lamond International School. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the proposed purchase of the Griffin Soccer Park, which received strong council support despite financial cautions from the Citizens Financial Oversight Board.
Key Decisions & Votes
Lamond International School Inclusion
38:00The council agreed to include Lamond International School in the future master plan for the Griffin Hospital site, supporting their interest in remaining on the campus, potentially with a new school building within the new neighborhood.
Purchase of Griffin Soccer Park
58:00The council expressed strong support for proceeding with the purchase of the Griffin Soccer Park for $3,36,811, recognizing it as a critical acquisition and utilizing identified Norman Forward and capital funds.
Financial Matters
Griffin Soccer Park Purchase
The proposed acquisition of the Griffin Soccer Park for $3,36,811, to be funded by $1.9 million from the remaining Griffin Park lease allocation, $220,000 from the Griffin Soccer Park remodel project savings, and $686,811 from the capital fund.
Norman Forward Fund Balance
The current fund balance of the Norman Forward fund is approximately $9.8 million.
Estimated Cost for Remaining Norman Forward Projects
Approximately $11 million (based on 2022 estimates) is needed to complete the five remaining Norman Forward projects.
Public Comments
A representative from the Citizens Financial Oversight Board expressed strong support for the Griffin Soccer Park acquisition but cautioned the council about potential funding shortfalls for other Norman Forward projects. Concerns were raised regarding rising project costs and recent sales tax trends, especially after the addition of the senior center project, suggesting that the general fund might need to support future projects.
Coming Up
Tabled
- RDG Main Street campus master plan concepts will be brought to the Community Planning and Transportation Committee (CPTC) in August or September for further discussion.
Deadlines
- Norman Forward sales tax is scheduled to wind down in 2031, with approximately six years remaining.
Watch For
- Future discussions on a potential Norman Forward 2 (tax extension) to cover remaining projects.
- RFPs for design services for remaining Norman Forward projects.
Agenda Summary
Presentation and discussion on the RDG Main Street campus master plan and a request from Lamond International School
A presentation of master plan concepts (specifically concepts three and five) for the redevelopment of the former Griffin Hospital site, focusing on urban density, housing, and community integration. Lamond International School expressed interest in remaining on the campus as part of the new development.
Discussion regarding the purchase of the Griffin Soccer Park
A discussion on the financial details and strategic importance of acquiring the Griffin Soccer Park, which the city has been leasing. Staff presented a funding plan utilizing Norman Forward allocations and capital project savings.