Urban fishing pond may get $40,000 in construction tax funds

The urban fishing pond slated for the Carson City Fairgrounds was recommended for $40,000 in residential construction tax funding for wetland vegetation, benches and to provide partial funds for an ADA-accessible fishing pier.

The funding was part of the Carson City Parks and Recreation Commission's decision to spend $150,000 on ongoing projects at the fairgrounds, Governor's Field, the Bob Boldrick Theater and the city's aquatics facility.

The pond is estimated to cost between $550,000 and $600,000. The city has $350,000 in hand now to build the park, not counting Tuesday's recommendation from the parks board.

"We are seeking funds to be able to put this project out to bid later this year," said Parks Planner Vern Krahn.

• Governor's Field received $36,500 to add landscaping and drip systems in the parking lot; and $19,000 to add portable toilets.

• The theater received $60,000 for its lighting console.

• The aquatics facility received $13,500 for new fitness equipment.

The final decision on funding is up to the Carson City Board of Supervisors.

The $150,000 available for the five projects was less than half of the $373,234 requested for nine projects. In fiscal year 2006-07 the city spent $139,900 in construction taxes on parks.

Residential construction taxes are imposed on new residential construction to provide neighborhood parks and facilities for parks required by the residents living in the new construction areas. The funds are only for acquisition, improvement and expansion of neighborhood parks or the installation of facilities in existing parks or neighborhood parks.