01-29-19 Civic Site Task Force - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

CIVIC SITE TASK FORCE – SEPTEMBER 25, 2018 5 Councilmember Holden commented on how some families may not be able to afford a YMCA membership, but could still benefit from community programming at a Civic Site. Ms. Ward reported the YMCA does offer daily passes and noted seniors receive a reduced rate for both monthly and yearly memberships. Councilmember Holmes stated if the YMCA were to co-locate in this space, Option B may be the best option for the City. Ms. McMaster indicated she was pleased by the list of programs and needs the group has created for this site. Ms. Mitchell agreed it was important the group had identified a list of community needs. Mr. Beggin stated he would like more information on what the National Guard was proposing. He believed it would be important for the City to work with the National Guard to better understand how this space could be utilized by the community. He wanted to assist in repairing the relationship between the City and the National Guard. Mr. Beggin commented the National Guard was interested in working with the City so long as all security measures are still kept in place with the new Red Bulls HQ. Councilmember Holden stated for budgeting purposes the City was not able to meet the National Guard’s last request for assistance for the Ben Franklin Readiness center, however, the City is not currently being asked to assist in the new Red Bull HQ Ms. McMaster suggested the group review the list of proposed programming for the Civic Site. Mr. Waguespack reviewed the list of proposed programming with the Task Force and noted the location these activities would take place. He asked if anything should be eliminated from this list. Mr. Beggin anticipated it would be a challenge to have a restaurant and public programming within the Civic Site. He stated catered events would be easier for this site to host. Mr. Waguespack commented this building would be set apart because it would serve as a destination. For this reason, he believed a small café or coffee shop could survive. Mr. Beggin suggested the City not provide the food service, but rather that this be offered by another entity. Councilmember Holden asked how many people would fit into the art space. Mr. Waguespack stated this would depend on the type of art class that was being offered. He reported the art space could be discussed further in order to meet the community’s needs. He explained a wet and dry art space could be created.