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West St. Paul and Mendota Heights are asking for input on a potential community center. The 12-question online survey asks about amenities, location, usage, and what residents are willing to pay (both in membership fees and property taxes).
Community Center Context
The survey is a part of a larger feasibility study to outline what a community center looks like, what the costs would be, and the market demand to support such a facility.
- As part of a larger city park plan, the study is looking at specific needs of a community center.
- A focus group convened this fall gave input on what’s needed.
- The survey will gather wider input (that’s happening now).
- The city hopes to finalize the study in January or February and outline the demand and market analysis, ballpark costs for capital and operational investment, as well as ongoing revenue.
- In the spring of 2024, West St. Paul City Council will determine next steps with all the information in hand.
- Assuming the Council wants to move forward, the public bonding to pay for a community center would most likely require voters to approve a referendum during the November 2024 election. A city-wide vote isn’t necessarily required, but given current interest rates it would enable the city to secure the best financing. That’s the route City Manager Nate Burkett is recommending at this time.
- Other options and funding sources might be possible, but the city needs the details the feasibility study will provide to pursue anything else.
This is a good example of how we keep the community informed. Support our member drive.
Last year we reported on the feasibility study and included in depth details about potential costs and where City Council stood at the time.
Give your input: Take the community center survey.
Note: Both West St. Paul and Mendota Heights have their own surveys. They have similar questions, though West St. Paul asks a couple demographics questions. Both ask where the respondent lives, so you’re welcome to take either one.
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