Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Parks & Recreation Department

DATE:           December 5, 2011

TO:              Dave Corliss, City Manager,

Cynthia Wagner, Assistant City Manager

                   Diane Stoddard, Assistant City Manager

FROM:          Ernie Shaw, Interim Director Parks & Recreation

RE:               RFP for Fundraising Services - Lawrence Activity and Wellness Center

Please include the following item on the City Commission agenda for consideration at the December 13, 2011, meeting:

Project Background

On October 25, 2011, the City Commission reviewed conceptual plans for a new recreation and wellness facility.  At the November 8, 2011 City Commission meeting public comment was solicited and the project received substantial public support.  The Commission directed that staff proceed with further development of this project, including seeking partners for the new facility and moving forward in a process to select firms to assist in architectural design and fundraising.   

Project Description

The City of Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department requests Commission approval to solicit proposals from professional fundraising firms. The proposed campaign will provide additional funding to develop the proposed Lawrence Activity and Wellness Center, consisting of a minimum of five gyms, a track and wellness facility. Proposals will be due 5 p.m. Friday, January 6, 2012. It is anticipated approval of a recommended firm will come to the Lawrence City Commission for approval in early February.

Project Funding

Funding for these services will come from Sales Tax Reserve.

Action Request

Authorize staff to request proposals from professional fund raising services.

Attachment: RFP