The community redevelopment agency expressed concern over the River Landing project’s future after it failed to attract bids. City Manager Matthew Copp reported that preliminary feedback from contractors suggested that the project estimates, particularly those related to civil and roadway costs, were lower than actual market rates, with one contractor estimating his bid could be two to three times higher than anticipated. The board acknowledged the need for a review and consideration of potential next steps, which could include revisiting the project’s scope or reissuing the bid at a later date, given the discrepancies in cost estimation. The agency discussed the importance of understanding the reasons behind the disparity in estimated versus actual costs and the implications for the project’s future.

In a separate agenda item, the agency debated a proposal submitted by Whiskey River for the lease of two parking lots owned by the city. The proposal included a monthly lease amount of $1,050 and did not specify a lease term duration, allowing flexibility for the city’s future redevelopment plans. The board considered the importance of conducting a market analysis to ensure that the lease rates were in line with current market values and that the lease terms would not limit the city’s options for the properties.

Lastly, the agency pulled the discussion on the disposition of the property on Weber Lane from the agenda. The decision was made in light of ongoing uncertainty regarding the city’s plans for an adjacent parcel.