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Community Center Feasibility Study
After gathering strong initial support in 2024, the City of De Soto is now taking the first steps toward exploring a new multi-purpose facility in De Soto. We've partnered with Wiese Research Group (WRG) and the YMCA to conduct a Feasibility Study that will help us understand what amenities you want, how interested you are, and whether the community would support funding the project, if needed.
The proposed community center could include amenities such as...
- Indoor sports courts
- Fitness areas
- Childcare facilities
- Walking tracks
- Aquatic spaces
- .... and more.
While the initial concept included the YMCA as a potential facility operator, we’re exploring all options to ensure the center is the right fit for De Soto.
To gather your input, WRG is conducting both online and phone surveys. Your input will help us plan for the future needs of wellness, recreation, and community programming in De Soto.
Project History
- December 2023: The City submitted a (no-obligation) grant application to fund a Community & Childcare Center near K-10 and 91st Street.
- January 2024: Conducted preliminary FlashVote survey to gauge initial interest in the project.
- February 2024: Notified we did not receive grant; however, because of the community's initial receptiveness, we decided to incorporate next steps (the study) into the 2025 budget.
- September 2024: Feasibility study proposal approved by the City Council, partnering with Weise Research Group (WRG).
- October 2024: Preparation of survey materials began, including online and phone outreach plans.
- January 2025: Surveys launched to gather community input.
- April 2025: WRG will present findings to the City Council.
The Survey
Conducted by Wiese Research Group (WRG), the Community Center Feasibility Study survey is a vital part of understanding our community’s needs and preferences for a potential new facility.
One survey may be completed per household by anyone over the age of 18.
There are two ways for residents to participate:
Online Survey: Every household in De Soto will receive a postcard containing the link to the online survey and a unique access code. This code allows you to complete the survey online in either English or Spanish.
- Visit DeSotoCommunityCenterSurvey.com
- Enter your unique 6-digit PIN (located under your address on the postcard)
Phone Survey: WRG will also conduct phone surveys with randomly-selected households within a 5–7-mile radius of De Soto. These calls will help gauge the broader interest and user base beyond city limits.
Potential Sites
The City is exploring sites that align with infrastructure and community needs. One consideration is the area near K-10 and 91st Street, which offers accessibility and growth potential.
Budget & Funding
The feasibility study estimates the following costs for the proposed center:
- Initial Study: $38,900 (±10%)
- Facility Construction Estimate: the 2024 grant submission was for a $35 Million facility, but the actual budget will depend on community input
- Potential Funding Sources: Business development (franchise) fees, taxes, grants, partnerships with YMCA and local organizations.
Next Steps
The next steps in the Community Center Feasibility Study depend on the results of the ongoing survey. Once the study is complete, WRG will present their findings to the City Council by April 2025. Based on the level of community support, potential next steps may include:
2025 - 2026
Engagement with Partners:
If survey results show strong support, the City may collaborate with organizations like the YMCA, local schools, and other partners to refine the vision and explore shared opportunities for the center.Community Feedback:
Additional public engagement opportunities will ensure that residents remain involved throughout the planning process.Preliminary Cost Estimates and Funding:
Detailed architectural renderings and updated cost estimates will be developed. Funding options, such as sales taxes, grants, and partnerships, will also be reviewed.Site Selection and Design:
Depending on feedback, we’ll evaluate potential locations and host public open houses to gather further input on amenities and design concepts.
2027
- Construction
Resources
- December 7, 2023: City Council Meeting: Discuss Multi-Purpose Community Facility - Supporting Workforce, Health/Wellness, and Childcare
- January 4, 2024: City Council Community Center Workshop Grant Application
- January 2024: Community Center FlashVote Poll
- September 5, 2024: Consider Proposal from Weise Communications for a Community Center Feasibility Study
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Brandon Mills
Asst. City Administrator / City ClerkPhone: 913-586-5250