HomeMy WebLinkAboutSports Park Working Group Statement of Intent 3-27-14Sports Park Working Group Statement of Intent
Submitted by the Sports Park Working Group (SPG)
In lieu of a formal “Agreement in Principle”, the Sports Park Working Group, hereinafter “SPG”,
would like to offer a basis for a future Memorandum of Understanding between the SPG and the
City of Bozeman to include but not be limited to the following provisions.
Buy-Sell Agreement Execution
To whatever extent necessary, the SPG is available to facilitate the assignment and closing of the
buy-sell agreement. As to date, the SPG is willing to assist with the completion of the required due
diligence regarding establishing the 80-acre parcel, securing adequate water rights, and any title
issues. The SPG is interested in continuing to utilize our relationship with the seller to complete all
necessary transactions.
Public Park Planning Process
The SPG would like to represent Blitzz Soccer Club and Gallatin Valley Lacrosse League during
the public park planning process. To the greatest extent possible, the SPG would like to assist the
Recreation and Parks Advisory Board in the development of a public survey; the planning and
holding of any public meetings; the evaluation of public comment; and consideration of any
changes to design. As the sole entity that developed, vetted, promoted, and delivered the vision of
Bozeman’s Sports Park, the SPG feels it is imperative that the organizations they represent be
heavily involved with the RPAB and the public park planning process.
Site Plan Review Process
The SPG understands the importance of the site plan review process and spent considerable time
designing the phase concepts to be compatible with the Unified Development Code. The SPG
would like to continue to offer its members’ expertise to meet the requirements of the UDC as the
initial concepts are modified into final design.
Matching Funds Plan
The SPG has offered to provide at least $500,000 as a match in the form of cash-in-lieu of services
and capital. Considering the TOP Committee has advanced a recommendation that underfunds
the development of at least ten fields of sufficient quality to host state and regional tournaments
and until the City Commission makes the final decision regarding total project funding and
subsequent allocation, the SPG feels it is premature to outline a specific fundraising plan.
The SPG is committed to formulate a plan to meet the funding requirements of the project once the
approval process is complete. The SPG anticipates this plan will include but not be limited to
securing in-kind reductions of final design and construction services; solicitation of private
philanthropic donations; identification of additional funding sources both private and public; and
value-engineered cost savings.
Sports Field Foundation
As stated throughout the application process, the SPG is committed to the formation of a 501c3
organization, currently referred to as the Sports Field Foundation (SFF), as a formally incorporated
partner to the City of Bozeman for the purposes of assisting with the phased development, partial
funding and on-going management of the Sports Park.
The ongoing ability to raise funds, maintain and manage this facility in a responsible way will be
critical to the long term success of this project. The SPG recognize these tasks extend beyond
what either the City or the SFF can do alone. As a result, the SPG believes it will be necessary to
establish a private-public partnership (PPP) between the City and the SFF to ensure the Sports
Park’s success and sustainability. The SFF Board will be comprised of representatives from the
City, the user groups and possibly the at-large community. These PPP models have proven
effective in many other municipalities and it is the SPG’s belief that such an organization will be
well positioned to address the complexities that arise with the ongoing support, management and
maintenance of a multi-use facility.
Respectfully Submitted by:
The Sports Park Working Group
Chris Budeski, citizen volunteer engineer
Allen May, citizen volunteer organizer
Chris Naumann, Bozeman Lacrosse Board President
Paul Rubright, Blittz Soccer Board President
Tim Stefan, citizen volunteer sports field architect
Kristin Taylor, citizen volunteer organizer