The Pella City Council appeared to be united in support for a quality-of-life upgrade to the community’s south side at their meeting this week.

During policy and planning, the council agreed to move forward to future formal action to convert the old coal power plant site along Oskaloosa Street into a park. The latest proposal is estimated to cost approximately $1.5 million at the location that has stayed empty for a decade. The work required would include needed infrastructure upgrades, such as burying power lines, new sidewalks, and extensive landscaping, as well as other amenities in what may ultimately be called Charles Farver Park.

A funding proposal from city administration would include $200,000 in private donations, $350,000 from the electric utility to handle power lines, $96,400 from LOSST, and $855,000 in a general obligation bond.

If approved, the infrastructure changes are slated for the summer of 2025, with the park constructed in the summer of 2026.