Fairview commissioners discuss using tree-bank funds to match Historic Triangle grant

During the June 11 budget workshop the board discussed a proposed grant to develop the Historic Triangle property, including use of tree-bank funds as part of the city’s match.

Commissioners said the total project is roughly $2.2–2.3 million and that a 50–50 match would place the city’s portion at about $1.15 million. Board members said the property’s assessed value (reported in discussion at roughly $700,000–$750,000) would count toward the local match, leaving several hundred thousand dollars to be provided in cash or other eligible match items.

Multiple commissioners and staff discussed using tree-bank funds for the project’s path and supporting site work, and staff said current projections indicate the tree bank should have sufficient funds to contribute the needed portion while still covering the park cleanup charges tied to recent storm work. Commissioners nevertheless asked staff to verify tree-bank balances and confirm that using those funds would not require additional taxpayer dollars.

Commissioners requested clearer numbers and documentation in advance of the June 18 public hearing and asked staff to confirm grant match accounting (what can be counted as match, the property value treatment, and any encumbrances). Staff said they would verify balances and follow up.

If the project moves forward, commissioners said it could house the farmers market and community theater activities and referenced a pending grant decision expected in August.

What happens next: Staff will validate tree-bank balances and the match accounting and update commissioners ahead of the June 18 meeting so the board can consider the grant’s budgetary implications.