Access Kalamazoo - Meeting with Parchment Mayor Robert Britigan

Updated about 6 hours ago

In this episode titled "Building the Future: Parchment's New Curling Facility," Tobias Pixler, an intern at Public Media Network, sits down with Parchment City Mayor Robert Brittian to discuss the highly anticipated Kalamazoo Curling Club facility. They explore the planning and negotiations that led to this development, the transformation of the old paper mill site into a curling hub, and the expected benefits for the Parchment community. As excitement builds, they talk about the club's ambitions for independence and the potential economic boost from hosting local and national tournaments. The episode reveals the strategic planning behind this project and the city's vision for future growth.

Chapters

Introduction of Tobias Pixler and the Mayor (00:00:17)
Tobias Pixler introduces himself as an intern at Public Media Network and welcomes Parchment City Mayor Robert Brittian for a discussion.

Tobias Pixler, an intern at Public Media Network, begins the program by introducing himself and welcoming Parchment City Mayor Robert Brittian. They are here to discuss important topics concerning the city, starting with the planned new Curling Club facility.
Discussion on New Curling Club Facility (00:00:28)
The conversation shifts to the planned new Curling Club facility for the Kalamazoo Curling Club in Parchment.

Tobias and Mayor Brittian discuss the planned new Curling Club facility for the Kalamazoo Curling Club. The facility is being planned in the city of Parchment, and Mayor Brittian confirms the plans and gives a brief overview of how they came to be.
Background and Negotiations (00:00:44)
Mayor Brittian explains how the idea for a permanent facility came about and the negotiations involved.

Mayor Brittian details the initial stages of the plan to build a permanent facility for the Kalamazoo Curling Club. They approached the city looking for land suitable for an indoor ice arena, leading to negotiations and discussions about the size and location of the project.
Land Allocation and Sale (00:01:02)
The city and the Curling Club agree on a land sale for two and a half acres formerly belonging to a paper mill.

Mayor Brittian explains that the city of Parchment has land available from a former paper mill, which they agreed to sell to the Curling Club. The club needed about two and a half acres for their facility, which the city could provide, leading to a negotiated arrangement for the sale.
Challenges of Leasing and Need for Independence (00:01:51)
The club faced challenges as tenants and sought independence with their own facility.

Mayor Brittian elaborates on the challenges the Kalamazoo Curling Club faced due to their dependence on leased ice space, often playing second to hockey and figure skating. This dependence drove their desire for a permanent home to gain control over their facility and schedule.
Historical Context of the Paper Mill (00:02:14)
The history of the paper mill and its transformation into a village and city.

The mayor provides some historical context about the paper mill that used to operate in Parchment, eventually leading to the incorporation of Parchment as a city. The decline of the paper industry left opportunities for repurposing the land, such as the current Curling Club project.
Planning and Collaboration (00:03:01)
Discussion on planning efforts by Parchment and collaboration with the curling club and other entities.

The conversation covers the planning stages of the Curling Club project, highlighting efforts by the City of Parchment and collaboration with various groups. Discovery Kalamazoo and other organizations stepped in to help address the club's needs and explore long-term solutions.
Cost and Municipal Services Agreement (00:03:53)
Details of cost arrangements, including a municipal services agreement to support city services.

Mayor Brittian explains the financial aspects of the project, including the low land costs for the club and a municipal services agreement. This agreement ensures the club contributes to essential city services despite their nonprofit status, covering costs equivalent to property taxes initially.
Community Utilization and Off-Season Planning (00:05:01)
Plans for facility use during off-seasons and community engagement opportunities.

The discussion moves to how the Curling Club plans to utilize the facility during the off-season. They are considering options for community center activities or other sports events when the ice is not in use, aiming to maximize the facility's benefits to the community year-round.
Community Excitement and Economic Impact (00:06:42)
Excitement builds in the community over the club's potential to drive economic growth and tourism.

Mayor Brittian shares that there is excitement in the community about the Curling Club project. The facility is expected to bring traffic and business to Parchment, potentially sparking local economic growth and development, attracting visitors through tournaments and events.
Historical Setbacks and Future Visions (00:08:30)
Past challenges with developers and the city's vision for future developments.

The mayor recounts the historical challenges faced with previous developers after the paper mill closed and the great recession's impact. However, the city has a vision for mixed-use developments in the area, hoping to attract various businesses and industries.
Strategic Planning and Market Studies (00:10:15)
Current strategic planning efforts, including market studies and development proposals.

The city has commissioned a highest and best use study to guide future development on the former paper mill site. This strategic approach will help determine what the market can support, ensuring the vision for the area is feasible and sustainable.
Conclusion and Future Prospects (00:12:30)
The interview concludes with hopes for the Curling Club's timely construction and development.

The interview wraps up with Tobias thanking Mayor Brittian. They express hope for the Curling Club's development timeline, acknowledging the need for funding and construction planning. The city is enthusiastic about the potential impact on Parchment's growth.