Ordinance amendment would allow public‑art projects to qualify for parkland impact fee reimbursement

City staff presented an ordinance amendment to the board that would allow public art and private park‑like amenities to qualify for parkland impact fee reimbursement when recommended by the Franklin Public Arts Commission and approved by the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

Lisa, a parks staff member, read the new language into the record and explained the intent: public art and open‑space areas may be eligible for parkland impact fee reimbursement upon recommendation by the Franklin Public Arts Commission and board approval. She said the amendment would avoid a fixed percentage by quadrant and instead permit targeted reimbursement where a development includes qualifying, recreation‑focused amenities.

Alderman Blanton asked for clarification about private park‑like amenities. Lisa said both public and private park‑type amenities could qualify, subject to commission recommendation and board approval; she also noted an example reimbursement level used in practice where a developer received 75% back when the facility was public and dedicated for recreation.

Staff noted the ordinance amendment was on the agenda for the same night’s voting session and said they are available to answer questions; the board did not take a vote at the work session.

What changed and next steps

The proposed amendment alters specific sections of the Franklin Municipal Code (chapter references provided in the draft ordinance) to permit commission‑recommended reimbursements for qualifying public art and public/private park amenities. Staff told the board the Parks Department and the Public Arts Commission would review proposals and provide recommendations; the board would make final decisions on reimbursements. The draft ordinance was scheduled for the evening voting session, where aldermen could act on the change.