04-26-10 Parc Committee (parks,recreation,cultural arts & etc.)

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BILL NO. 22-10 ALONZO WATSON PARK LAND TRANSFER Mayor Luecke made the presentation. He said the Park Board last Monday had unanimously supported the transfer of Alonzo Watson Park to the Salvation Army allowing construction of the Kroc Center; Groundbreaking was scheduled for May 13. He went on to say bids for clearing the land and site preparation for construction had been received. As many trees as possible in the park would be saved. Karen White asked about the memorial promised for Alonzo Watson and the status of the footbridge. Jeff Gibney said Watson would be memorialized with a large stone and plaque. Upgrades were also planned to pain, light, and refurbish the bridge. Patti Phillips spoke in favor of the project. She said the Kroc Center will complement programs experiencing record enrollment at Ivy Tech. Councilmember Kirsits motioned and Councilmember Rouse seconded a favorable recommendation to Council. All affirmed. HALL OF FAME UPDATE The Mayor said funding issues in Georgia had delayed the projected opening of the new facility in Atlanta. Given that the NFF had asked the contract with South Bend be extended through 2011 and maybe 2012. Jeff Gibney then revealed that the City had hired consultants previously who worked with them to update their studies. AEG, a design group, was retained to look at the engineering considerations affecting possible re-use of the Hall of Fame property. The city contemplates a "town square" approach with the re-use of the site. Buxton, a retain consultant, will refresh their study of downtown and also look at LaSalle Square's retail potential. Councilmember Puzzello asked Jeff to provide copies of the studies for Council. Councilmember Rouse wondered what the consultants cost. Jeff said Buxton was updating their study for $7,500 while AEG was to be paid $15,000. Councilmember Henry Davis questioned the necessity of hiring consultants, suggested a local panel of developers could volunteer expertise. Jeff responded citing the unique elements of the studies and prior work relationships with the consulting groups would provide the best possible information. Councilmember Varner and Kyle Chamberlin, citizen member, both suggested the terms of the NFF contract be reviewed rather than automatically extending the current arrangement. Councilmember Kirsits suggested the parade route for the enshrinement festival this summer be changed to benefit downtown businesses, perhaps down old Michigan Street. There being no further business to come before the Committee at this time, Chairperson Puzzello adjourned the meeting at 4:25 p.m. Respectfully Submitted, % ~~~ L~ ~ Ann Puzzello, Chairperson PARCS Committee