2007-10-15 - Laserfiche WebLink

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7 said he is struck by the high energy features proposed. He said there is no mention of solar for hot water. Dr. Brown said we have struggled to find active recreation for youth, and he likes offering more than just a body of water. He said he shares the concern about the cost, and would like to see the cost come down but keeping the six lanes. Mr. Norris commended Mr. Svetz for the proposal. He said he thinks it makes sense to consolidate Smith and Crow. He said he is concerned about the cost, and is not sure we need as much dry space which could reduce the cost. He said he likes where we are going with the pool and lap lanes. He said it would easily accommodate City residents and more and he is in favor of it. Dr. Brown said that the YMCA issue is part of the package, and it will impact how we move forward. He said he would like to find ways to meet the needs without so much cost. He asked staff to bring back ways to have a less pricey facility. PUBLIC HEARING/ORDINANCE : ACCEPT BIDS FOR LEASE OF LAND AT MCINTIRE PARK FOR RECREATIONAL FACILITIES Dr. Brown noted that the YMCA proposal just came in today. He said Council will receive public comment, but will continue the public hearing until the next meeting. Mr. Craig Brown, City Attorney, said that State law allows a 40 year lease, but Council must advertise and accept bids. He said one bid was received from the YMCA for a recreation center on a portion of McIntire Park. Mr. Brown said the lease would be for 40 years for $1 a year. He reviewed the core components of the lease. He noted that the YMCA is requesting $1.25 million from both the City and Albemarle County. He said there are a number of outstanding issues that will require further negotiation. Mr. Brown said the Mayor needs to ask if there are any other bids, and if not, the bidding closes. Mr. Brown said that the first reading of the ordinance is typically held after the public hearing is closed which will not be until the next meeting. Dr. Brown asked if there are any other bids, and there being no response, the bidding was closed. Mr. Kurt Kruger, President of the YMCA, explained that a ground lease and user agreement have been presented. He said the memorandum addresses more specifics. He said if Council finds the bid to be responsive then the City and YMCA can negotiate. He noted that the City wanted ten lap lanes and a one meter diving board. He said the needs assessment showed that to be a lower priority, and he asked if the YMCA is unable to raise money for ten lanes will the City say no to the facility or settle for something less. He said the YMCA will commit to the ten lanes and diving board if the City and County contribute $1.25 million each. He said that the City wanted priority for the CHS swim team, but he said that is difficult to commit to without knowing the number of lanes. In addition, he said the County would also want priority for the County schools. He said all parties need to come to a reasonable accommodation. He said it would be logical to schedule CHS students early due to their proximity to the facility. Mr. Norris said one concern he has heard is that the City is entering into business with a private religious organization. He said he would like to put that concern to rest, and asked if the YMCA can commit that there is no religious test or no discrimination based on religion in any way. Mr. Kruger said that the YMCA was started by Christian men, but became all inclusive. He said there are no religious test and it is open to all. Mr. Norris commended the YMCA on the bid and for including the stipulation that all residents below the poverty level can participate. Mr. Norris suggested that the YMCA also find other ways to address affordability and accessibility that would allow seniors to use the facility.