Title
Resolution to Support the Leslie Science and Nature Center Nature Playscape and Appropriate $250,000.00 (8 Votes Required)
Memorandum
This resolution approves supporting the Leslie Science and Nature Center Nature Playscape construction with an amount up to $250,000.00.
Project Description
Leslie Science and Nature Center (LSNC) has managed and operated the Leslie Science Center for the City since 2007. Over the years LSNC has developed and implemented programming that focuses on providing high-quality services and experiences consistent with the vision and desires of Dr. and Mrs. Leslie. Staff have been impressed with LSNC programming and creativity over the recent challenging years and have enjoyed a strong, collaborative partnership in helping to provide a focus on environmental education and community building that takes place in the park.
Since 2015, LSNC has been working with the community and City staff to enhance the park and programming through the development of a nature playscape and additional amenities. LSNC has had many successes and setbacks during this process and has continue to work closely with City staff to share those success and identify ways to address the setbacks. LSNC has had success in fundraising and securing grants to build portions of the playscape and necessary amenities to support. Currently, LSNC has received $602,490.00 of the $1,497,690.00 need to complete the project and is continuing to pursue grant and funding opportunities.
Parks staff support contributing to the nature playscape and necessary amenities as it provides the parks department with added amenities to our parks system and will be free and open to the public. Parks staff also support this due to the long partnership with LSNC and their exceptional work in managing the space. In addition to being open to the public and providing LSNC with some needed programmatic space and necessities, it will also further designate Leslie Science as a community resource...
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