Item 10ACity of Southlake, Texas
MEMORANDUM
November 2, 2005
TO: Shana Yelverton, City Manager
FROM: Steve Polasek, Director of Community Services
SUBJECT: Placement of Historic Log Cabin
Action Requested: City Council direction on placement of historic log cabin.
Background
Information: The Southlake Historical Society (SHS) approached the City requesting
placement in a city park of an 1860's -era log cabin originally located in the
John A. Freeman survey in Southlake. Once constructed, the cabin will be
approximately 12' x 15' and include proposed site amenities such as
walkways, landscaping, signage, and lighting. Staff and the Southlake
Historical Society have reviewed several locations within the parks system
for potential placement and recommend two site options: 1) Noble Oaks
Park; and 2) Summit Park in Town Square. Both parks are listed within the
Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Master Plan as being well- suited for
reconstruction and display of Southlake historical structures.
Staff reviewed with SHS the advantages and challenges associated with
each site, as well as shared items for consideration to include visual appeal,
security, fit with surrounding park/land uses, and proximity to high traffic
locations and original cabin site.
Summit Park
Advantages:
■ Added historical perspective to overall development
■ Local attraction
■ High vehicle and pedestrian traffic area
■ Good site visibility (security)
Challenges:
■ Ease of access (additional walkways must be constructed)
■ Differing opinions on site suitability and potential resident
concern regarding proximity
■ Availability of public parking
Noble Oaks Park
Advantages:
■ High vehicle and pedestrian traffic area
■ Good site visibility (security)
■ Proximity to school provides opportunity for historical learning
■ Proximity to shared parking
Shana Yelverton, City Manager
October 18, 2005
Page 2 of 2
Challenges:
■ Ease of access (additional walkways must be constructed)
Financial
Considerations: The reconstruction cost of the log cabin is estimated at $50,000- $60,000.
SHS anticipates seeking SPDC matching funds to assist with reconstruction
and direct City assistance with site amenities such as landscaping,
hardscape, walkways, lighting, and signage estimated at approximately
$15,000.
Financial
Impact: The long term financial impact resulting from the maintenance of the
proposed log cabin is unknown at this time; however, the City anticipates a
partnership care and maintenance approach in conjunction with the
Southlake Historical Society.
Citizen Input/
Board Review: The Southlake Historical Society addressed City Council during public
forum in March 2005. Council provided direction to work with City staff to
identify potential locations and present at a future date.
City Council voted (5 -0) to table consideration of placement of the historic
log cabin until the November 15, 2005 meeting.
Legal Review: Not Applicable.
Alternatives: City Council discussion and direction.
Supporting
Documents: Supporting documents include the following items:
■ Presentation provided at meeting
Staff
Recommendation: City Council direction on placement of historic log cabin.