October 8, 2021 3:20 a.m.
The agenda has been set for Monday night’s meeting of the Roseburg City Council.
Councilors will consider authorizing staff to apply for a U.S. Economic Development Administration ARPA Travel, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation Grant. These are funds that are available through the American Rescue Plan Act. Staff has been working with Sequoia Consulting, a professional grant-writing firm. The intent is to seek money to redevelop portions of Stewart Park into a modern regional complex that will facilitate sports tournaments, supporting hospitality based local businesses and making Roseburg a more attractive place for professionals and families to call home, according to notes provided to the council. Staff anticipates applying for the maximum possible amount of $10 million.
If approved at the federal level, the city would have to add $2 million in additional funds. At the Parks Commission meeting on Wednesday, City Manager Nikki Messenger said a list of potential projects is still being put together. This could include a renovation of the tennis center, and turning some soccer and softball fields into turf fields, among many other options. The Parks Commission has recommended that councilors approve allowing staff to submit an application.
The meeting will also include an update on council goals. It will be held at 7:00 p.m. via Zoom. It can be viewed live on the city’s Facebook page and seen later on its website: