mincow 04-25-22 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

forward, the team needs agreement on the location of the plaza and the decision regarding the Curtis Block, as these are key components of the site, around which much is dependent. Councilmember Litten reminded everyone that the city is able to require the public space as part of its terms because the land is city-owned. He asked questions regarding the use of the space. Mr. Sobczak of Casto emphasized the developer's interest in activating the space to the greatest extent possible in order to achieve their goals. He stated that while Casto will own and maintain the space, that it will be mostly public space. He stated that the developer does not anticipate any private need for the space and that Roundstone may reserve the space a few times per year for employee events. Casto stated that they would develop a scheduling process to coordinate various uses and requests for the space. Other councilmember requests and questions regarding the plaza included: • Children's play space • Holiday tree • Ice skating rink • Additional green space • Public art • Programming In response to a question about the potential future of the site in the event of a transfer, Director Leininger provided assurances that maintenance agreements will be developed that will survive the transfer of the property from one owner to the next. The Committee and Casto discussed the compelling business interest of Casto to get the plaza piece of the site right in order to attract and keep quality tenants. The Committee, Casto and Ms. Nichols discussed the pros and cons of using a New Community Authority verses an HOA, or other tool to program the community space. Mr. Chillog of Edge Landscaping spoke of the importance of the materials, details, and finishes to bring the plaza alive and assured the city that Edge is prepared to do this. He explained that at this stage of the discussion, the focus is more on right sizing the space to later accommodate those materials and capturing the right feeling from the built environment. Director Leininger pointed out that all the visual examples provided are simple spaces surrounded by high quality architecture and set up to be flexible for their users. He assured Council that the budget for the plaza is intended to accommodate a high-quality design. In response to priorities expressed by Councilmember Kepple, Director Leininger stated that community partners such as Lakewood Alive and the Chamber of Commerce will be invited to weigh in on the space and their anticipated uses. Discussion of the Curtis Block 4