Clifton City Council appproved Heritage Plaza refurbishment

• Upgrades to Heritage Plaza in historic downtown Clifton began earlier this week. Nathan Diebenow | The Clifton Record

The Clifton City Council approved funding for the refurbishment of Heritage Plaza in historic downtown Clifton during its regular meeting on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.

The council approved a maximum of $25,000 from the Higher Education Fund to initiate upgrades to the beloved public space.

Proposed improvements

Heritage Plaza currently serves as a gathering spot for residents and visitors alike. However, the plaza has not seen major updates in over two decades.

Clifton City Administrator David McDowell outlined a plan to rejuvenate the plaza, whose focal point is a life-sized bronze statue called “On the Banks of the Bosque” by cowboy artist Bruce Greene.

The proposed improvements include:

•Brick leveling and replacement: The project will involve lifting and leveling the existing bricks to create a smooth and even surface. Damaged or missing bricks will be replaced to restore the plaza's integrity.

•Concrete borders: To replace the rotted wooden borders, sixinch concrete borders will be installed. These new borders will be more durable and aesthetically pleasing.

•Stamped concrete enhancements: Around the central fountain, stamped concrete will be used to create a visually appealing design that ties into the theme of Heritage Plaza. The design may include motifs or text celebrating the heritage and history of Clifton.

•Fountain and lighting repairs: Efforts will be made to restore the functionality of the central fountain, including plumbing repairs and the addition of new lighting to enhance the fountain’s visual impact, especially at night.

•Updated landscaping: The landscaping plan will introduce native plants and hardy shrubs, reducing maintenance needs while creating a welcoming environment. The landscaping will be designed to withstand local climate conditions and enhance the overall appeal of the plaza.

•Future expansion possibilities: The council discussed potential future uses for the land behind the plaza, such as an area for food trucks and picnic tables.

Next steps

The refurbishment project will start following the finalization of detailed plans and the receipt of bids for the work, McDowell said.

McDowell added that the city will engage local contractors with the goal of completing the initial phase of refurbishment quickly.

Other actions

Thecouncilapprovedanewconfidentiality policy for the municipal court.

New members were appointed to the Clifton Main Street Board of Directors, including Rebecca Bird, Cade Brooks, Rita Hamilton, Amanda Hoff, Katelyn Robinson, Taye Stanfield, and Alexis Wellman.

City Administrator McDowell presented several budget amendments, including an increase for parks and playgrounds to accommodate new developments.

The council approved a $5,000 request from the hotel occupancy tax fund to support marketing and promotion of the city’s upcoming Independence Day celebration on Saturday, June 29.

The council approved the minutes from the previous meetings held on May 14 and May 28.

Future projects

Mayor Pro-Tem Dale LaRue raised questions regarding the Meridian water supply issue and the city's efforts to resolve it.

Discussion on the pension plan for the volunteer fire department was deferred for further investigation and planning.

Consent agenda

While discussing the consent agenda, LaRue expressed gratitude for the efforts of the police and street departments in maintaining city services.

Departmental updates

McDowell confirmed that city hall is awaiting results from a grant application for the library's summer reading program.

Clifton Community Development Coordinator Hayley Sanders reported on the successful first concert of the Small Town Big Tunes series this June, attended by approximately 100 people. She also provided updates on the farmers market, which is thriving with regular vendor participation.

Public comments

During the public comment period, resident Kimberly Jarratt raised concerns over water drainage problems within the city limits, particularly behind the Dairy Queen and at Sunset Home. She suggested a halt on new construction projects until proper drainage solutions are implemented. She also proposed the city pursue grants and consider making drainage a city utility to fund comprehensive improvements.