Co-Chairs Dispel Social Media Rumors About Quincy’s Proposed Sports Facility

QUINCY – The city’s sports commission is taking vital steps to clarify ongoing discussions surrounding a potential new sports facility, firmly stating there are no finalized decisions regarding its construction or any taxpayer funding involved. During a recent City Council meeting, Sports Commission Co-Chairs David Adam and Kelly Mays addressed lingering rumors and provided an update on the commission’s objectives and progress.

The Commission’s Dual Goals

The Quincy Sports Commission has two primary missions: to support the local sports community by offering facilities and programs Monday through Thursday, and to attract sports tourism to host competitions and tournaments over the weekends. With these goals, Adam emphasized the starting point of the commission’s efforts. "This group is starting at ground zero," he stated, underscoring the collaborative nature of the planning process. The commission is actively exploring all ideas about potential facilities and assessing existing resources.

Dismissing Misconceptions

Adam’s remarks came in response to public assumptions that decisions regarding the facility and funding methods were already established. He contrasted the current deliberations with a previous presentation by a Missouri company proposing a large-scale, 100,000 square-foot facility costing between $30 to $35 million. "What we’ve done is quite a bit different under a different administration," Adam clarified. He indicated that many of the proposals discussed earlier had only been shared with a select few, highlighting the importance of transparency moving forward.

Land Proposals and Timeline

In a move to advance discussions about suitable locations for the potential facility, the Great River Economic Development Foundation is creating a Request for Proposal (RFP) for land opportunities. Adam announced that the commission is currently seeking parcels of land ranging from 5 to 55 acres, with a submission deadline set for September 26. This proactive measure is aimed at ensuring the community’s needs are prioritized while exploring possible sites.

The Importance of Community Engagement

Adam advised the public to be cautious of the narratives circulating on social media claiming that decisions had already been made. “When someone tells you on social media that the land’s already decided on or that this is a done deal, don’t listen to them,” he warned. Reiterating the commission’s ongoing exploratory phase, he mentioned that their focus remains on gathering information and gathering public input rather than finalizing details.

Funding Mechanisms Under Consideration

In discussions about funding options, Mays highlighted the critical lack of available facilities in Quincy, noting that out of 46 courts available for volleyball and basketball, only 11 are actually rentable. This limited availability impacts the city’s ability to host tournaments effectively. "Even if they say they’re available, if you call and ask, you’re probably not going to get in there," she explained.

Adam indicated that various funding avenues are open for consideration, from public-private partnerships to selling naming rights for the facility. He shared a relevant example from Missouri, where a company fully funded a sports facility in exchange for naming rights. "Anybody who would like to do that," Adam quipped, “I’m sure Linda (the mayor) would love the chance to speak with you.”

Taxpayer Concerns and Communication

During the meeting, Alderman Greg Fletcher expressed his constituents’ concerns about the potential for new taxes to fund such a facility. He was clear: "99% of our community says fix our roads first." Adam reassured the council that extensive study is required before any decisions about utilizing taxpayer money can be made. "It’s way too early in the ballgame," he emphasized, reinforcing the notion that community feedback will be essential in shaping future proposals.

Administrative Updates and Community Events

The discussion at the City Council meeting also included administrative considerations, such as the need for a new code of conduct during meetings to maintain decorum. In addition, Mayor Linda Moore announced upcoming special events, including a helicopter landing for a local event and numerous parades that will require city approval.

Various community events are on the calendar, bringing excitement to Quincy, with approvals granted for the Survival Flight event and several homecoming parades. These activities serve not only to celebrate local achievements but also to bring the community together more closely.

Infrastructure and Environmental Responsibilities

In closing, the council took decisive actions regarding local infrastructure projects, including a $2.8 million loan agreement aimed at upgrading sewage handling systems to better protect surrounding waterways. Director of Public Works Jeffrey Conte articulated the importance of addressing federal mandates proactively, stating that inaction would lead to more costly repercussions in the future.

Overall, while the discussions regarding Quincy’s future sports facility are still in their infancy, the commitment by the sports commission and city officials to transparency and community involvement is clear. The invitation to community members to engage in ongoing dialogue signifies a dedication to making informed and collective decisions that will impact the lives of Quincians for years to come.