Memorandum

City of Lawrence

City Manager’s Office

TO:	Mayor and City Commissioners
FROM:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
DATE:	May 29, 2014
RE:	Police Facility Discussions

The Commission has been discussing the need for a new consolidated police facility.  Staff sought proposals for potential sites and analyzed the pros and cons of a number of them.  Preliminary discussions have been held with some of the owners of the identified properties, however, no commitments have been made or tendered.   One site that may be most favorable is on land already owned by the City at VenturePark.  As shown on the attached map, there are a several lots on the western side of the property that would provide adequate acreage for the facility, good proximity to the Douglas County jail, good access to 23^rd Street (and upon completion K-10, 31^st Street via completed 31^st Street), appropriate topography, no floodplain concerns (some drainage improvements will be necessary for the site). 

As previously discussed, existing resources are insufficient to fund construction of this facility.  A new revenue source would be required.  Commissioners have explored funding options including a local sales tax or increase in the City’s property tax mill.  Several commissioners have expressed an interest in placing any potential sales tax and/or property tax increase before the voters on the November 2015 ballot.  In order to ensure sufficient time for public input and discussion, now would be an appropriate for this item to be included on an agenda.

In addition to an analysis of some of the potential sites provided by the Chief of Police, the City Attorney has provided a memo outlining the options for a sales tax or property tax election.  The Finance Director has also provided a projection of the City’s debt guidelines to include a $28.0 million debt issue. (The City has previously adopted a resolution for $1.5 million for this project (property acquisition, architect, etc.).

Recommended next steps for consideration:

1)  Direct staff concerning additional information desired on the project budget, funding options, possible site location, negotiating with Treanor Architects for additional concept study work on the project; and

2) Direct the scheduling of public meetings to seek additional public comment on the proposed project.     

I am happy to answer questions or provide any additional information.