While the drawdown structure is a vital part of the city's proposed dredging project, officials say it's also important for maintaining the Firesteel Creek wetland improvements planned for 2024.
Among the 10 bids submitted for the wetland project, Whiskeyboard Construction's $583,997 bid was the lowest. Several bids came in as high as $1 million for the 35-acre wetland project.
Under a payment scenario spanning from 2026 to 2055, the city would be looking at an annual loan payment of $1.3 million, along with yearly $500,000 alum treatments recommended by an engineer firm.
The street that's being built in the center of the development will be maintained by a Home Owner's Association, but city services such as garbage and recycling will be available to residents.
Among the key topics discussed during the forum were the future of Lake Mitchell, growth, the city’s aging infrastructure and issues facing downtown Mitchell.