HOPE – At the second July Hope City Board meeting Tuesday night, Engineer Jeremy Stone presented plans for the new fire station for the Board to review. He discussed features regarding facilities inside and how fire trucks will enter and exit the building as well as external features. Board member Gary Johnson asked if the fire pole from the old fire house could be displayed and Stone said there will be locations for it. The new station will be equipped with a “baby box” where, for whatever reason, a newborn could be safely surrendered. The board accepted the updates.
The board considered pine tree planting options on airport property. Airport staff presented their recommendations and the board approved.
A Condemnation Resolution was read on nine unoccupied properties. Photos of each property were shown and their condition explained. The Board was also updated on the status of several other previously condemned properties.
Clay McGill reviewed potential recreation center changes for Board consideration with estimated costs. Issues addressed included restroom access from the outdoor pool; the lobby accent wall; and parking lot camera conduit. After the Board reviews and gives its direction, exact costs will be determined and official change orders executed as approved.
Bill O’Hare with Willtech visited with the Board regarding revised AV costs and other options to lower those costs for the Recreation Aquatics Center. Klipsch has offered the City of Hope a 60% discount off retail prices for the recreation sound system. The Board will revisit at their next meeting following a review.
The Board considered a Grant Award Agreement/Resolution for Runway 16-34 at the airport. Project low bid was from Texarkana Concrete Construction, Inc. for $1,070,850. The City has done business with the company on previous projects. The Board approved.
City Manager JR Wilson presented sample agreements for use of the various park facilities to Board members for them to review with additional discussion at the next City Board meeting.