Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Oxford public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
8 issues in parks rec with medium priority
Avent Park Improvements Design Contract
Ecological Design Group will design the first project from the Parks and Trails Master Plan — Avent Park upgrades — with design done by early summer and construction hoped for this fiscal year.
Depot trail connection via Ole Miss license
The city will get a license (not an easement) from the University of Mississippi to build a pedestrian connection from CB Webb to the depot trail. The city builds and maintains it; Ole Miss must send it to IHL for approval.
mTrade Indoor Practice Facility IT Bid Rejection
Only one bid came in — $89,988 from BCI — about 2% over budget, so the city rejected it and will re-advertise after trimming scope.
Lacrosse tournaments at mTrade Park
New agreements bring youth soccer and fast-pitch softball tournaments to town, with a separate cleanup contract for event weekends. That means more visitors, more activity at the parks, and more weekend traffic.
Temporary ice skating rink for Holly Jolly Holidays
The Board locked in a $69,500 temporary ice rink for the holiday season, approved a tournaments deal with Richey Sports, and moved ahead on bids for the mTrade indoor practice facility's technology package.
Parks and Trails Master Plan Adoption
The city spent the day planning parks and trails with the university, county and school district, aiming at better ways to move around without cars. Residents can weigh in at an open house Wednesday evening at Circle and Square Brewery.
National Fitness Campaign outdoor fitness court
Oxford won the largest grant the National Fitness Campaign has ever awarded — $35,000 toward a free public outdoor fitness court, planned for Bailey Branch Park. The city must now find $283,000 in local funding within 120 days.
Cedar Oaks Guild transition
The city is giving the historic Cedar Oaks house and three lots back to the Cedar Oaks Guild now that its nonprofit status is confirmed. The city keeps the surrounding park greenspace forever, and a reverter clause protects the house's preservation use.