CRA 02/26/2018 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Community Redevelopment Agency February 26, 2018 Minutes Page 4 of 5 Mr. Adams reviewed the site analysis/bubble diagrams for the adjacent parcels and possible options for the site. Mr. Adams said the retail portion is important to offset costs and operating expenses. He said the retail aspect would create a sense of mixed-use and activity. Mr. Adams said the case studies showed that money is made when there is sufficient parking, easy access, big room capability, a kitchen and something unique to the facility. Mr. Aramendia left the meeting at 4:07 p.m. and returned at 4:10 p.m. A brief discussion ensued regarding the high utilization of the facilities and the operating cost versus the income generated for the event center. In response to the Board's question regarding renovating the Police Station to an event center, Mr. Adams said based on their study the Police Station is not functionally capable of providing the program the City needs. He said the cost of building a new facility would be about $250 - $300 a square foot, which equates to about $6 to $7 million. He said that figure does not include the construction of the garage. A brief discussion ensued regarding the use of the space for cultural arts, office space and wellness, the proposed size of the event center and the outside venue adding to the quality of the experience. In response to the Board's question, Mr. Adams stated that the grand ballroom would be modular and would be considered multi-purpose space. In response to the Board's question, Mr. Adams said it would be a single story building with high ceilings to create volume. A brief discussion ensued regarding the park edge and promenade designs. Mr. Adams said there is sufficient space on the site to construct an event center with a retail component. Mr. Newlon said the purpose of the presentation is to determine if the City should relocate the Police Department. He said the presentation was to test if an event center could be constructed on the Police Station site and it appears it is possible. He said that the event center would be a breakeven facility. Mr. Newlon said that it gives the City great strategic advantages over our competitors and it would serve a great need and synergize Casselberry and Lake Concord Park. He said it would make Casselberry a destination and hopefully revered as a great place to want to live. Mr. Newlon said the parking was envisioned in the CRA Plan and it could be funded with future CRA proceeds so those costs would not be factored in to the event center costs. He said there is a need for parking at City Hall. Mr. Newlon said the parking across the street is an expensive project and it may not be possible. He said