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Director Sylvester shifted focus to the potential use of the church as a community center and discussed the advantages of the location and site for this purpose such as ample parking, access to green space,proximity to the Gold Coast and low-moderate income census tracts. Director Gelsomino expressed excitement about the possibility of seniors doing gardening, setting up chicken coops and other outdoor activities at the site. Director Sylvester explained that before this opportunity arose, the City was strategizing for a brand-new human services building. It concluded that 15,000 square feet would be required, which is about the same as Cove Church provides. A new building of this size was estimated to be approximately $3.9 million. If Cove Church is not used as a community center the City's other options would be to lease property within the City at approximately $300,000 per year or to renovate existing Human Services buildings. In response to a question by a councilmember, Mayor Summers explained why he had previously considered the Community Health Center on Belle Ave. as a possible location for Human Services, and why he later changed his mind. Councilmember Anderson pointed out that a more detailed analysis of the costs and benefits of the different senior center options should include the current maintenance costs at the Lawther Center and the Division of Youth as well as the possible advantages of selling those properties to a private developer. In response to a councilmember's question, Director Gelsomino discussed how a shift in location of the senior center may impact seniors. She stated that the majority of seniors who arrive at the center drive themselves or utilize the City's transportation. Locating near the Gold Coast could draw in new seniors to visit. Director Sylvester walked Council through a flow chart mapping the decision points regarding the proposed purchase and potential community center use. Urban Designer Allison Hennie clarified that renovating Cove Church would take approximately the same amount of time as building a new structure. Director Sylvester stated that the next steps will take place immediately if Council approves the purchase on May 201h. In response to a question by a councilmember, Mayor Summers concluded that forgoing this opportunity would require the City to identify multiple parcels for sale in the north east corner of the City that would be large enough to hold the proposed storage tank. Alternative options are not expected to be any cheaper. Director Pae explained that if council proceeds with the purchase that the administration would later return for contracting authority related to abatement. Councilmember George voiced support for the purchase. Councilmember Bullock asked that the mature trees on the site be considered and prioritized. 3