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Heritage Preservation Commission Minutes October S, 2025 Page 2 of 3 Ms. Halsne mentioned that the wall holding up the grade could be a good spot to add signage. Zakcq Lockren, Mend Collaborative, added that the wall could also contain engraved bricks with donors' names on them. Councilmember Calva asked if there would be electricity on site for powering devices. Mr. Carlton discussed the possibility of adding a solar picnic table or including a charging feature on a bench. Ms. Halsne discussed the water feature which could include a manual -activated hand pump flowing over a stone surface and traveling down a channel along the timeline to the rain garden. Commissioner Dietz asked if the water would run constantly. Ms. Halsne said that it would only run when the pump was activated and be shut off in the winter. Mr. Carlton added that, in discussing with Elk River Municipal Utilities, they suggested a "sampling well". Another consideration is where the excess water from the rain water would overflow if it became too full. Ms. Halsne reviewed that the proposed price is around $400,000 with an additional optional $40,000- $50,000 that would include construction documents and support, landscape architect, civil engineering, additional cost estimator, and assistance with finding grants and other funding. The additional cost would also include a storytelling and signage specialist. Mr. Carlton asked if the additional cost would include construction administration and periodic inspections. Mr. Lockren stated the goal was that the city would not pay for the entire cost. Money could be raised from park and open space grants, placemaking grants, history grants, environmental and stormwater grants as well as individual and corporate funding or material donations. Some community fundraising ideas include buying a brick with a name on it, adopting a tree or bench, naming rights, or a time capsule. Grant funding could require a city match. Mr. Carlton stated that he had spoken to Plaisteds and they were interested in helping with hardscape, materials, soils, and rocks. Councilmember Calva asked about the timeline for fundraising and council approval. Mr. Carlton stated the Heritage Preservation Commission would take a motion to recommend approval and the City Council could formally adopt the concept plan. Mr. Carlton estimated the park completion in 2026 or 2027. Councilmember Calva asked if it could be completed sooner. Mr. Carlton stated he was happy to see it go as fast as possible. Commissioner Griffiths stated it seemed in the best interest of those who had given community feedback to get the project underway. Commissioner Dietz asked if an elk statute could be added to the plan. Moved by Commissioner Tuckey and seconded by Commissioner Campbell to recommend approval of the conceptual plans for the Water Tower Historic Site. Motion carried 4-0. Councilmember Calva discussed his enthusiasm for fundraising and stated the City Council would be more receptive to the project if funding could be found. Mr. Lockren agreed and stated sponsorship packages could be created.