Councilperson Art Tolis urged the Chamber of Commerce audience to keep an open mind on the proposed recreational water/beachfront concept for Fountain Park.

Tolis, supported by other town officials, laid out revised plans for the project at the Aug. 17 breakfast meeting. He repeatedly emphasized that the plan is under review and “the jury is still out.”

Emphasizing that the lagoon is “not necessarily going to happen,” Tolis explained the reasons for considering the idea.

“We would be creating a four-star amenity here,” said Tolis, replacing what once was the tallest fountain in the world.

“We need to re-image our community with new Fountain features,” said Tolis. He explained that the height of the fountain is restricted because permits don’t allow the Fountain spray to leave the park perimeter.

Last December, a committee took on the task to measure community support for a recreational lagoon in the park and return with a business plan. Tolis spearheads the committee that includes business leaders.

The initial consensus was that the swimming lagoon, beach and other amenities, such as restaurant concessions, paddle boats and paddle boards, could energize Fountain Park and create an activity hub to support downtown businesses.

The committee believes the lagoon could increase tourism income and sales tax revenues and promote the town as a family-friendly community.

Project revisions

Since the preliminary concept was unveiled, relocating the lagoon to the south side of the park closer to existing commercial businesses has been proposed. The initial location was on the north end near the amphitheater.

Another recommendation is to make the lagoon smaller than the previous design of 5.6 acres to save costs. The revised beach area would be longer, thinner and larger to handle about 3,700 people.

A small earth dam would separate the existing lake from the lagoon at least 500 feet from the Fountain.

The initial estimate to build the lagoon has been set at $600,000 per acre, or roughly $3.5 to $4 million. Dining and concession facilities, event space, a boat house, beach area and other improvements would be additional costs. Treating the water alone would cost $200,000 annually, said Tolis.

The committee is considering a solution to the birds in the park and potential parking issues.

What happens next?

Two consulting companies contracted by the town are expected to submit their findings and recommendations in October, said Tolis.

Applied Economics firm is analyzing construction and operating costs; financing, operating revenues and other financials to determine the feasibility of the project.

Swaback Partners is evaluating the proposed site from an architectural and engineering standpoint. Swaback developed a downtown vision and specific area community plan for Fountain Hills in 2009.

As studies progress, Tolis said the committee will discuss all costs, including return on investment. The council could decide as early as June 2017 on whether or not to proceed with the project, said Tolis.

If the project were to require public funding, a referendum would be presented to voters, said Tolis. A proposition could be scheduled as soon as the fall of 2018 and breaking ground by 2019, said Town Manager Grady Miller.

In case the lagoon is not approved, an individual asked if there is a Plan B. Tolis replied that there is not another option “other than a property sales tax.” Constructing an observatory also has been proposed as a magnet for tourists.