WORKSHOP ITEM Erik Thorvig, Economic Development Coordinator
Title
DISCUSS PROPOSAL FOR PRIVATE INDOOR RECREATION USE ON LAND NEAR CITY HALL
Background
Staff has been approached by a group interested in developing an indoor sports/recreation building in the City of Blaine to serve youth sports. We’ve discussed several sites; however the site the group is most interested in is the land next to City Hall that was previously identified for the community center. The site is currently 7.39 acres, however 1.58 acres is under agreement with another user looking to develop an office building. That leaves 5.81 acres available for other uses.
The group has provided a narrative and outline for their concept. The group is going to provide architectural plans of the facility at the meeting. In general the narrative identifies the following:
Facility
• 75,000 sf.
• Five high-school sized basketball courts serving basketball and volleyball
• Indoor soccer field able to serve soccer, football, baseball/softball and lacrosse
• Walking track
• Workout/weights area
Usage
• Practices for youth sports
• Weekend tournaments
• Summer camps
• Development/Youth leagues
• Community Use (further discussion needed)
Timing
• Ready for Fall 2018
Funding Approach/City Partnership
• Group would build and operate the facility
• Non-Profit vs. Private entity
• Further conversations need to occur about land relationship (sale vs. ground lease), taxes, grants, City partnership in future, etc.
Recommendation
At this time the concept is still very preliminary and more conversations need to occur with the group regarding any relationship the City may have in the endeavor both currently and in the future. At this time, staff is looking for direction as to whether the site makes sense for this use, and whether the City should continue the discussion about how/if the City is a partner in the future. Other City departments would be involved in this conversation.