2015-07-27 Regular Meeting of La Porte City Council minutes

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Councilmember Leonard asked if there are any thoughts for docking/pier facilities for boats to come up to the convention center. Mr. Livingston responded that's a possibility; the City can find a developer to implement docking facilities, or the City can build the facilities. Councilmember Earp asked Economic Development Coordinator Scott Livingston if he could provide a conservative budget and bring it back to Council. Mr. Livingston responded yes. Councilmember Clausen commented he thinks a multi-use convention center is a good idea, but he does not think the facility can be constructed for $120 per square foot. Councilmember Clausen commented the City needs to make it a first class facility. Councilmember Martin commented the facility will be available to all citizens and a crown jewel for our City. Councilmember Martin also commented it will be a proper use of Hotel/Motel and Economic Development Corporation funds, and he does not want to hold a bond election if not required. Councilmember Engelken commented Sylvan Beach Pavilion is a jewel with a lot of history, and he wishes there was a better agreement between the City and Harris County. Councilmember Engelken also commented the City does need a meeting place, whether on waterfront or more inland; and City needs to study viable options for the future. Mayor Rigby commented he is not familiar with the Michigan area and does not know the cost to operate these type of facilities and if the City developed a multi-use convention center, there will be competition with Harris County. Mayor Rigby also commented he cannot support the idea without all of the information. Councilmember Martin commented he is not sure the facility will be a revenue stream, but it will bring individuals to the City. Councilmember Earp commented the idea should be examined with cost of maintenance and utilities as any other business. Councilmember Leonard commented staff needs to look at a pro forma budget -- cost estimates with cold hard figures. Councilmember Leonard moved for staff to bring back additional information. Councilmember Earp seconded. MOTION PASSED. Ayes: Mayor Rigby, Councilmembers Clausen, Martin, Leonard Kaminski, Earp and Engelken Nays: None Absent: Councilmember Zemanek (b) Discussion and possible action regarding further exploring the City options and opportunities related to energy saving performance contracting — C. Alexander City Manager Corby Alexander discussed exploring City options and opportunities related to energy saving performance contracting and asked if Council is interested in staff exploring options and opportunities for energy savings. Councilmember Leonard asked if there are any cost estimates for consulting companies to provide services. City Manager Corby Alexander responded the companies make money by putting the projects together. Councilmember Earp commented he would like to see which buildings are of concern and the energy cost of each building to see if the project can be spread out. Page 3 of 5 July 27, 2015, Council Meeting Minutes