Archive: Caller comment board on Mark Scott's teardown and rebuild proposal for Memorial Coliseum

From the Caller-Times, 11/2/09:

"Councilman Mark Scott asked the council in a letter distributed Monday to tear down the aging bayfront building, create a memorial park and give incentives to nearby landowners to develop the area around the park...

Last week the council voted 4-3 to end negotiations with Brass Real Estate, the latest company to propose a plan to reuse the building and develop surrounding land. In September, Scott was the only council member to vote against beginning negotiations with Brass...

The council likely will discuss Scott’s suggestion, along with other coliseum possibilities, at its Nov. 10 meeting, Mayor Joe Adame said. Scott wants to start by removing asbestos in the coliseum, which he said would be necessary even if the council acts on a plan from the National Swimming Center Corp. to convert the building to an Olympic swimming center. If a partnership with the swimming corporation moves forward, his plans either would be merged with the corporation’s or disregarded, he said...

Scott wants the memorial park to emulate Discovery Green, a 12-acre park in downtown Houston with a lake, playground, amphitheater, fenced areas for dogs, open lawns and restaurants."







G_W_Vet writes:
Is it true the Mayor owns the surrounding property?
November 2, 2009
6:41 p.m.


FishFlats writes:
i said that befor Brass Monkey .. came into play.
cheaper,more dedicated to the veterans,simple to maintain..bet we can get the army and navy to donate a plane or helicopter to as the grand entrance.with the plaque in the middle.
fishflats give's Mark a pat on the back and gives a ata boy !
November 2, 2009
6:57 p.m.


CF writes:
Best plan by far. Veteran's Memorial Promenade. Grass, fountains, THE PLAQUE, kiosk vendors, festive atmosphere. It will attract people year 'round and become part of the waterfront parkway when Shoreline is re-alligned. Do it right and the development WILL follow on all that private / abandonded property west of Shoreline. It can be a beautiful bayfront.
November 2, 2009
7:33 p.m.

publicenemy357 writes:
(This comment was removed by the site staff.)
November 2, 2009
8:43 p.m.


44636770 writes:
YES! I totally agree with Mark's plan. Most people I talk to every day want it torn down. We DO NOT need apartments and another hotel and a parking garage. We need something to make families want to go downtown to enjoy what could be our beautiful bayfront.
November 2, 2009
8:59 p.m.


CJC writes:
I can't believe that I agree with Mark Scott. Sounds like a plan!
November 2, 2009
9:15 p.m.


nunyabiznez writes:
Best plan yet!
November 2, 2009
9:21 p.m.


roliboy#235632 writes:
Great! And we can let all the hippies sleep there for free. Why fix it up?
They already trash the area...let's keep it as filthy as possible. Hey and we can let all the anti-Las Brisas, anti-energy, anti-jobs, anti-growth nut jobs use that area to sing cumbaya
November 2, 2009
9:31 p.m.


CCTXCN writes:
Sell it and let private money make something out of it! As part of the sale the city must be hands off. i bet you would have something built and someone making money!
The City has a reputation that will keep builders and business away from Corpus Christi.
Mayor adamme is a disapointment, Escobar is a clown and the board are failures!
November 2, 2009
9:35 p.m.


Trav writes:
in response to G_W_Vet:
Is it true the Mayor owns the surrounding property?
The Mayor owns Whataburger Shoreline Property and leases it on a long term lease to Whataburger Inc. But of course that isn't immediately next to the coliseum.
November 2, 2009
9:41 p.m.


sue-c#352597 writes:
First of all, Mark Scott is involved in real estate. He built a multi-floor condominium on a street on the island where there were only supposed to be duplexes, at most. People who bought into his development are the only ones who do not pay into the Padre Isles Association fees. When I asked how that happened at the office of the POA a couple of years ago, the woman said to me "I don't really know and I don't think I want to know." At that time, Mark Scott was our alderman. Do I really think he is making ANY suggestions for the benefit of the city?? NOT IN A MILLION YEARS!!
November 2, 2009
9:52 p.m.


BKW_007 writes:
Hopefully one day corpus can be like the valley and laredo. I remember 10 years ago they were saying i wish we could be more like corpus. Funny how things change. In about 10 years we will be saying i wish we could be more like victoria.....lol.
November 2, 2009
10:11 p.m.


HowdyDoody writes:
CC is all about "potential" and nothing more.
Same as it ever was......
The only REAL potential is the multi million dollar sale I just made up here in the Hill Country. yah.......
November 2, 2009
11:08 p.m.


diane#715068 writes:
This plan is about as unrealistic as they come. We're talking about building a park and hoping that a hodgepodge of private developers will come together and build something cohesive. 
However, the Brass deal was cohesive, it was worth $100 million dollars and it would have come together if the city gave it a chance. 
Oh and don't forget about the 13 acres of parkland we took away from Brass after negotiations got underway. So there you go, Brass's 9 acres + 13 acres of park right next to it = Houston's Discovery Green.
Where was Mark Scott with this 'brilliant' idea before Brass came to the table. Don't fall for it folks. He just wants the coliseum knocked down and grass put in, so he can 'get on' with his life, as he put it in the letter to the other council members.
November 2, 2009
11:17 p.m.


diane#715068 writes:
Oh and check out these gems about the Houston project Mark is 'modeling' his idea after:
$125 million project cost
$750,000 annual maintenance costs
$21 million dollar parking garage
The city's special committee on this had to raise $55 million.
It makes no sense that the same person who voted down Brass has suggested this.
November 2, 2009
11:21 p.m.


seaneve2002#409013 writes:
A great plan. Do It!!!!
November 2, 2009
11:33 p.m.


rubine99 writes:
A park is a great idea, but not his park. We don't have enough great parks in Corpus. Maybe some playgrounds for kids of all ages (there is barely anything for toddlers here), a little wading pool, maybe even a work out area (Venice's muscle beach style). I can see vendors selling things in the summer. Just something nice for families to motivate us to get off our couches and to get active.
November 2, 2009
11:49 p.m.


BW writes:
Mark has got the right idea. But lets not make it a WWII war memorial but a Veterians Memorial. At this point the WWI Vets are honored on Upper Broadway, Viet Nam Vets, at the County Court House. I don't know were the Korean Vets have been honored. There are many vets who lost their lives outside a defined war. Let us not forget them and their families. As Mark indicated let us call upon our vets to bring about a memorial that they would be proud of for their fallen buddies. I believe that such a Memorial could be easily financed in part from the commuity and the various Veterians Org. such as the VFW, GI Forum, The Gold Star Mother, and those surviving vets who want to remember their fallen classmates. Lets not forget the Navy and Army at NAS. Lets not make it a CC memorial but a South Texas Memorial to inclued Nueces, San Pat, Aransas, Jim Wells, and Kleburg counties. Maybe 1/2 to one acre of land.
Lets do it right this time.
Do not give away our beautful bayfront to private developers. If the Brass project had gone thru if you wanted to visit Magee Beach you would have had to park in a seven story parking garage. Their is more than enought private propety between Shoreline and Water for a Brass Project.
I had an uncle born and raised in CC, killed during WWII buried in France and his name does not appear on the plaque. I am also a Viet Nam era vet (1966-1970).
November 2, 2009
11:58 p.m.


BW writes:
And I will donate the first $500.00.
November 3, 2009
3:14 a.m.


ridley writes:
All of the land is parkland including the coliseum. A park it is and should be with or without the coliseum.
November 3, 2009
4:56 a.m.


scokaz writes:
At least Mark has ideas which opens a discussion up instead of sitting back and nitpicking others' proposals as the other members do.
Great ideas, Mark. Bravo to you.
November 3, 2009
5:30 a.m.


grande3#359803 writes:
Thanks Mark for a great idea. Now we need the rest of the City Council to input their two cents worth in.
November 3, 2009
6:23 a.m.


kcb68 writes:
will its about time how could any company want to bid on this with claims that its two rundown ? tear it down for a new.
November 3, 2009
6:26 a.m.


Thinking4Myself writes:
Wow:
Can not believe it but for once an elected official has come up with a sensible solution. Let's tear it down and have a veteran's memorial of some sort. The only thing is that, like virtually every other politician, he wants to give "incentives" to the already rich landowners around the site. Sorry, but why should I struggle to make ends meet and then be asked to contribute to folks who (I assume as I could never afford land near Shoreline/Ocean Drive) already have a whole lot more money than me. So, an "A+" for effort, but let's eliminate the incentives to the rich folks! Maybe the incentives are why the mayor is now thinks it is a good idea as he owns Whattaburger. Sorry Mayor, but a Conflict of Interest is a Conflict of Interest!
November 3, 2009
6:33 a.m.


penname writes:
Mark Scott is so off base, it's truly shocking.
November 3, 2009
6:36 a.m.


cleenupcc writes:
in response to CF:
Best plan by far. Veteran's Memorial Promenade. Grass, fountains, THE PLAQUE, kiosk vendors, festive atmosphere. It will attract people year 'round and become part of the waterfront parkway when Shoreline is re-alligned. Do it right and the development WILL follow on all that private / abandonded property west of Shoreline. It can be a beautiful bayfront.
it is a wonderful idea that a lot of us citizens have been saying all along-but of course you have to keep the graffiti artists out of the park.
November 3, 2009
7:05 a.m.


chrisort1 writes:
just rip it down and be done with it.
November 3, 2009
7:19 a.m.


mgarcia writes:
Mark Scott is trying to pull a bait and switch.
The City of Corpus Christi is never going to build this outrageously expensive park. He has done no feasibility study or cost estimate. This is an irresponsible prosposal designed to dupe the people who love parks and the veterans.
Corpus Christi needs jobs and economic development. Not another park that is not maintained. Cole Park is 50 acres. Go look at the bathrooms, graffiti, broken swings and see what a great job Corpus does of maintaining existing parks. Corpus needs soccer fields, which this area would not accomodate. Mark Scott would not know that because just like with American Bank Center, he did no research or analysis before he shoved it down our throats.
November 3, 2009
7:22 a.m.


ilovecc writes:
Thats exactly what Corpus Christi needs...more fire ant filled, brown grass space with crummy playground equipment that kids can't play on because its searing their skin off rather than JOBS.
I believe we all ready have that two blocks down. It's called Cole Park.
What a visionary you are, Mark Scott. Tunnel vision with the American Bank Center interest.
November 3, 2009
7:35 a.m.


Riptide writes:
Round & round we go, like we've been doing for such a long time. And round & round we will keep going. We need better city leaders.....
November 3, 2009
7:43 a.m.


jasondavidpage#712717 writes:
in response to ilovecc:
Thats exactly what Corpus Christi needs...more fire ant filled, brown grass space with crummy playground equipment that kids can't play on because its searing their skin off rather than JOBS.
I believe we all ready have that two blocks down. It's called Cole Park.
What a visionary you are, Mark Scott. Tunnel vision with the American Bank Center interest.
I absolutely despise your negativity. When was the last time you visited McCaughn Park? or Sherrill Park? or Cole Park? In case you haven't noticed, but every weekend these parks are filled with people, young and old.
During the summer there was hardly any space for people to park because McGee Beach and the playgrounds at both Sherrill Park and McCaughn Park were both being utilized to the fullest extent possible. Cole Park is filled every weekend with families, adults, fisherman, children and skaters.
Adding the Brass Plan or Swimming Center isn't really going to create JOBS that the city needs, is it? The JOBS our city needs can only be brought in through proper industry and commercial interests - and although tourism is one of the driving factors of our local economy - the jobs tourism brings are, for the better part, low wage paying part time jobs.
A perfect project for a park to replace the dilapidated coliseum would be to create a self-sufficient park. Solar and wind power provides the energy for fountains and lighting. Include enough space to be able to use the area as an in-city festival site. And, this doesn't have to happen all at once. We just need to take steps - tear down the coliseum, develop a 10 year project forecast, raze the aging parking lots and concrete, raise funds through taxes, donations, tourism dollars, etc.; implement the forecast.
November 3, 2009
8:14 a.m.


256161 writes:
This whole subject is EPIC FAIL.
Mark Scott announces this on the local news last night like he's the first one to think of this idea. People have been commenting about doing this very thing for years but it's only news worthy when Scott proposes it. Ridiculous! Where has he been all this time? The only good thing about this is that maybe this idea will finally be taken seriously by the city council.
Tear the coliseum down!
November 3, 2009
8:18 a.m.


deweyfinn#243858 writes:
I'm all for a public park as long as the city can maintain it.
November 3, 2009
8:19 a.m.


nunyabiznez writes:
Why do people who view themselves as progressive think that more hotel cleaning jobs and food server jobs will help CC's employment? They are low paying jobs and they do not leave room for growth. CC does need more jobs available for its people but there must be more options than the same old, same old.
November 3, 2009
8:37 a.m.


gavlik711#268567 writes:
So the City can’t even properly maintain its premier waterfront park (Cole Park), and now a council member is proposing to add ANOTHER premier waterfront park?????
BRILLIANT!!!!
It makes me feel so good to know that I live in a city that is busting at the seams with such smart people.....
November 3, 2009
8:37 a.m.


dwp007#715457 writes:
The city of untapped potential will [forever] continue until local government changes its mindset. To change its mindset, it has become clear that [career] political retreads like Mark Scott should be banished.
November 3, 2009
8:40 a.m.


Dude writes:
It's a short drive to Houston. Are we going to duplicate what they have? Probably not. Can we do something significant with the land? Look at what HAS been done with private money along the seawall. Let's go Corpus Christi! Tell Brent Chesney for progress! Tell the nearby developers they have the green light go! Corpus has voted for Progress!
RAZE THE HUT!!!!!!!!
November 3, 2009
8:41 a.m.


hkarsh#290653 writes:
Why spend two million dollars to tear down the Coliseum when you could fix up the building for not a whole lot more and still create the park around the Coliseum building? What have you gained by tearing it down and leaving an outdoor arena that would be 1/2 to 1/4 less useful and would still have to meet very expensive ADA requirements? The big numbers to invest in the Coliseum would be to keep it as an arena with ADA upgrades. We could do the same park project and save the Coliseum by gutting the interior and creating an open space flat exhibit hall, restrooms and concessions! Put out some chairs and a portable stage and you have a large performance space or multiple stages and smaller spaces. Clear out the chairs and bring in cars, boats or trucks etc and you have an exhibit space. It would work with outdoor festivals and you wouldn't have to walk all the way to the ABC. The water and sewer lines are already in place for the restrooms and the power hook ups are all there. Its a win win for the community and the surrounding land owners.
November 3, 2009
8:42 a.m.


1Colts_Fan writes:
There are plenty of empty lots all downtown to build a park. Why tear down the coliseum? Why can't we work a deal for the swim center and still build a park. The city will never keep up the park and punk kids will just "tag" it anyway. I would love to sit with Mark Scott and know what his reall motivation behind tearing it down is. There are plenty of parks in CC that could use attention and revamping. Why not concentrate at what we do have. That is the biggest problem with this time.. they always want to know if the grass is greener on the other side.
November 3, 2009
8:53 a.m.


NoBullOney writes:
in response to hkarsh#290653:
Why spend two million dollars to tear down the Coliseum when you could fix up the building for not a whole lot more and still create the park around the Coliseum building? What have you gained by tearing it down and leaving an outdoor arena that would be 1/2 to 1/4 less useful and would still have to meet very expensive ADA requirements? The big numbers to invest in the Coliseum would be to keep it as an arena with ADA upgrades. We could do the same park project and save the Coliseum by gutting the interior and creating an open space flat exhibit hall, restrooms and concessions! Put out some chairs and a portable stage and you have a large performance space or multiple stages and smaller spaces. Clear out the chairs and bring in cars, boats or trucks etc and you have an exhibit space. It would work with outdoor festivals and you wouldn't have to walk all the way to the ABC. The water and sewer lines are already in place for the restrooms and the power hook ups are all there. Its a win win for the community and the surrounding land owners.
The estimates to fix it up are $10 - 12 million. Don't know what your economic background is but that's a bit more than $2 million. Of course, if you've got a few extra million laying around, we'd be glad to take a personal donation for the project.
Also, what you are suggesting would take events away from the American Bank Center and the adjacent exhibit hall. Got any suggestions what we would do with them after they become abandoned from lack of use?
November 3, 2009
8:56 a.m.


eagle83 writes:
While you're tearing down that eyesore, would you ask the guy with the wrecking ball to drive a short distance to the old county courthouse?
Thanks,
November 3, 2009
9:08 a.m.


Subscriber writes:
Just do SOMETHING for God's sake. Don't spend another 5 years "discussing". That is not what you were elected to do. Make a comitment and lets move forward fro the first time in 50 years.
November 3, 2009
9:08 a.m.


Dusky_Liz writes:
The City doesn't take care of the parks we have, so why add to that misery?
November 3, 2009
9:10 a.m.


rwh writes:
I think everyone should consider what was approved by the majority of the citizens that voted on the bond election in 2004. I would encourage everyone to look at the following web site:
www.cctexas.com/files/g29/CCJuly%2007%2C2004.pdf
This is what the good citizens of this community voted on in 2004 when we approved the bonds for the realignment and development of Shoreline. The plan called for green spaces and true pedestrian connections to the water. It also called for the usability of the Bayfront for the public. The plan did not enlarge the “footprint” of the coliseum building itself and certainly did not envision apartments, condos, parking garages, movie theaters or anything else that has been tossed into the ring lately. If the coliseum’s use cannot be found without costing this city’s taxpayers – it should be taken down and a Memorial Park be put in its place. That was what was envisioned when we voted on the bond election. There is plenty of room for viable development of commercial lands on the west side of Shoreline.
November 3, 2009
9:11 a.m.


Time4Change writes:
Mark Scott what are you thinking.???? Let help the city and figure out away to drive additional tax revenue to the city by doing something productive with the property so we can lower property taxes for everyone else in the city...... what school did you go too because your have a very low business acumen skill set!!!!!
November 3, 2009
9:13 a.m.


jillbean99#233442 writes:
Please do this!! We love Discovery Green! It has been such a great addition to downtown Houston, and the restaurant there has the best sweet potato fries. It would be perfect for Corpus Christi!
November 3, 2009
9:27 a.m.


tincup200 writes:
I mean this with all respect to Mr. Scott but you must be an idiot to suggest that a park is the best solution to this mess YOU and your other gutless council members put us through. The city cant even keep the grass cut at the park down the street fromm my house. Nevermind the poth holes I have to drive through to get there. There is not enough space here to truly put into words how embarrased as a citizen I am of our city government. You guys couldn't plan a birthday party if your life depended on it without screwing it up. Brass is willing to spend a boat load of money on a city that has nothing!!! And you want to argue about garages?? Please people wakeup!!! Let brass do what they want to do. We dont need a damn swimming pool when you can walk across the street and jump in the bay and swim all day. Come to think of it thats what Mark Scott needs to do. Now Mr. Mayor take the bull by the horns and get this thing done. We elected Brass give them thier shot.
November 3, 2009
9:32 a.m.


Jocko writes:
That works for me!! Any Way that we Can do the SAME for the Old County Court House? For the last 30 or so Years I have heard, " We are Going to Do Something............Court House". Knock it down Too. It is a Eyesore that Everyone Gets to See Coming into town off the Harbor Bridge.
November 3, 2009
9:50 a.m.


OilfieldTrash2009 writes:
Cool Turkey legs year round on the bayfront! We can have little concessions selling all kinds of crap ....... And noone in this city knows how to use a trashcan so imagine all trash......But if it gets that eyesore torn down go for it.........
November 3, 2009
10:05 a.m.


NoBullOney writes:
in response to tincup200:
I mean this with all respect to Mr. Scott but you must be an idiot to suggest that a park is the best solution to this mess YOU and your other gutless council members put us through. The city cant even keep the grass cut at the park down the street fromm my house. Nevermind the poth holes I have to drive through to get there. There is not enough space here to truly put into words how embarrased as a citizen I am of our city government. You guys couldn't plan a birthday party if your life depended on it without screwing it up. Brass is willing to spend a boat load of money on a city that has nothing!!! And you want to argue about garages?? Please people wakeup!!! Let brass do what they want to do. We dont need a damn swimming pool when you can walk across the street and jump in the bay and swim all day. Come to think of it thats what Mark Scott needs to do. Now Mr. Mayor take the bull by the horns and get this thing done. We elected Brass give them thier shot.
We elected Brass? What the heck are you talking about? Brass wanted the city to pull down the pants and like it. The deal was attractive on the surface but would cost us millions in the long run, and eventually would be another money pit that we'd be paying for for years to come.
Scott and the others who voted no are the only sane ones in the bunch. Escobar is the one who needs to take a swim, hike, long walk on a short pier, whatever. Just get him out of there, hire a competent city manager with experience in business and infrastructure development and the city council might have some viable projects to choose from, rather than convoluted, mismanaged, short-sighted deals that never had a chance.


November 3, 2009
10:12 a.m.


tincup200 writes:
in response to NoBullOney:
We elected Brass? What the heck are you talking about? Brass wanted the city to pull down the pants and like it. The deal was attractive on the surface but would cost us millions in the long run, and eventually would be another money pit that we'd be paying for for years to come.
Scott and the others who voted no are the only sane ones in the bunch. Escobar is the one who needs to take a swim, hike, long walk on a short pier, whatever. Just get him out of there, hire a competent city manager with experience in business and infrastructure development and the city council might have some viable projects to choose from, rather than convoluted, mismanaged, short-sighted deals that never had a chance.
Show me where it says the city was going tohave to pay millions of dollars and how. I am waiting.
November 3, 2009
10:12 a.m.


hecsan#242825 writes:
Lets see, add jobs to the city, or have a brown park? Hmmmm. Nooooo to the park. We need to grow our economy not grow grass.
November 3, 2009
10:16 a.m.


NoBullOney writes:
"He said tearing down the coliseum is a mistake because of its architectural significance."
I'm so sick and tired of this lame excuse to avoid tearing the piece of crap down. So what if it has architectural significance? It's not the Taj Mahal, the Roman Coliseum, or the Eiffel Tower. It's an old piece of crap and it's stinking up the scenery. Time to put on the rubber glove, pick it up and put it in a Zip-lok, and throw the thing away. A turd is a turd and will always be a turd.
November 3, 2009
10:16 a.m.


sal.zuniga#237084 writes:
After seeing several cities outside Corpus, the idea of another park strikes me as being backwards.
Come on City Council, take the risk, invest in economic development. A swim center is not it, Brass was a step in the right direction. Granted local business would have moved to it but it would have served as a beacon for outside CC businesses to come.
Another park for Vets? Being Vet the last thing I want is another park that is not maintained to the standard befitting Veterans. I would rather have something that contributes to the tax base.
Way to go Council, take a step backwards.
November 3, 2009
10:19 a.m.


NoBullOney writes:
in response to tincup200:
Show me where it says the city was going tohave to pay millions of dollars and how. I am waiting.
Read the article from 10/31 on why the deal failed. Or you can keep on waiting, if that works for you.
November 3, 2009
10:23 a.m.


cmm writes:
What does the master plan call for? You remember the "master plan" don't you...the same one that was paid for more than once...?
If memory serves, the "master plan" closes Shoreline in this area...I think Mark Scott's proposal has considerable merit and would certainly be a step in the right direction - i.e. moving forward!
November 3, 2009
10:28 a.m.


Esmael091956 writes:
JOE MCCOMB where are you?? Judge Neal is letting Ray Madrigal set up with his petition to SAVE THE HUT at the COURTHOUSE. GIVE US A VIABLE OPTION and sign your petition to have it on the ballot to TEAR IT DOWN. Anyone up for camping out with nothing else to do all day (like Madrigal and his group) at the Courthouse and ask for people to sign his petition? I have a job and a family to go home to each day, but thinks there might be some willing to set up camp at the Courthouse and I'll be the first to sign it... TEAR IT DOWN!
November 3, 2009
10:35 a.m.


BlueGulf writes:
Way to go Mark! FINALLY ! Someone is finally listening to what many of us have been saying on here for years. Tear down the Coliseum, and build a beautiful Memorial Park for what is the last little bit of green space we have that promotes the beauty of our view. (once you give up your green space, it is gone forever) And this follows the Master Plan of the bayfront which is what we voted on.
November 3, 2009
11:10 a.m.


Trex_In_Corpus writes:
banish Mark Scott from local government
November 3, 2009
11:14 a.m.


CF writes:
in response to sal.zuniga#237084:
After seeing several cities outside Corpus, the idea of another park strikes me as being backwards.
Come on City Council, take the risk, invest in economic development. A swim center is not it, Brass was a step in the right direction. Granted local business would have moved to it but it would have served as a beacon for outside CC businesses to come.
Another park for Vets? Being Vet the last thing I want is another park that is not maintained to the standard befitting Veterans. I would rather have something that contributes to the tax base.
Way to go Council, take a step backwards.
It all comes back to this simple premise: If it is such a good deal for Brass or anyone else, they WILL build it -- ACROSS THE STREET! I'm all for growth and progress. I want Brass -- or anyone for that matter -- to fill up the empty lots and buildings downtown. Give them all kinds of tax incentives to make it happen. It's better than empty buildings. But trying to put the Brass project into the coliseum parkway was the equivelant of stuffing a square peg into a round hole. It just wasn't a good fit for that property. Let's be happy it crashed and just move on.
November 3, 2009
11:24 a.m.


Catwomen writes:
Are the city council really that STUPID!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For crying out loud look our the rest of our parks in corpus. they look like dung from a armadillo. The grass is actually weeds. Theirs spraypaint pretty much everywhere. There is incredibly poor lighting which leads to gangs and thugs hanging there smoking their pot and doing their deals. And corpus cannot even maintain what they already have and they want to add a even larger park. Isnt cole park right down the street already>? Why dont we fix that one up first so people wont be scared going down there at night. This has to be the most stupid thing ever. And on an other note. the houston parks look so nice because it rains all the time there. In corpus in the summer it dosent rain at all can u imagine the water bill to keep the park green. OOOOOOO yea i forgot they dont plan on watering it and letting it turn to dung just like everything else in corpus.
Peace im out!
November 3, 2009
11:35 a.m.


penname writes:
Anyone trying to say the building can be an "open air pavilion" doesn't know what he's talking about. The building is constructed of lamella steel. If you don't keep the concrete cover and a roof over that steel, it will rust.
The building needs to be restored. There are companies that want to do it.
Let's go!
November 3, 2009
11:49 a.m.


NoBullOney writes:
in response to penname:
Anyone trying to say the building can be an "open air pavilion" doesn't know what he's talking about. The building is constructed of lamella steel. If you don't keep the concrete cover and a roof over that steel, it will rust.
The building needs to be restored. There are companies that want to do it.
Let's go!
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Citizens of Corpus Christi
1201 Leopard St.
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Attn: Joe Adame
November 3, 2009
11:56 a.m.


Marlee writes:
in response to CF:
It all comes back to this simple premise: If it is such a good deal for Brass or anyone else, they WILL build it -- ACROSS THE STREET! I'm all for growth and progress. I want Brass -- or anyone for that matter -- to fill up the empty lots and buildings downtown. Give them all kinds of tax incentives to make it happen. It's better than empty buildings. But trying to put the Brass project into the coliseum parkway was the equivelant of stuffing a square peg into a round hole. It just wasn't a good fit for that property. Let's be happy it crashed and just move on.
Exactly! If the Brass plan, or the swimming pool plan are such great ideas, let the developers build them with their own money. They take the risk, they make the profit. Not, the CC taxpayers take the risk and the developers make the profit.
If the coliseum can be turned into a big covered space and made part of a landscaped park with trees and other shade, that's what should be done. If not, tear it down.
But most of all, DO SOMETHING! No more studies, proposals or requests for ideas. Five years is more than enough time to figure out a solution.
November 3, 2009
12:15 p.m.


hkarsh#290653 writes:
in response to NoBullOney:
The estimates to fix it up are $10 - 12 million. Don't know what your economic background is but that's a bit more than $2 million. Of course, if you've got a few extra million laying around, we'd be glad to take a personal donation for the project.
Also, what you are suggesting would take events away from the American Bank Center and the adjacent exhibit hall. Got any suggestions what we would do with them after they become abandoned from lack of use?
The estimate was $10 million to renovate the current facility which would mean making the seating area ADA compliant, which would include very expensive upgrades. I am an expert in this area as I am the one who identified these very same issues at the Del Mar College's 1800 seat Richardson Auditorium. The DMC spent a great deal of money on an elevator to the balcony. What I am suggesting is a total gut job. This would remove all the existing seating and concrete risers. It would leave the building completely empty and flat. No need to make it ADA accessible accept for the entrance/exits and concessions and restrooms all which would then be rebuilt inside the existing structure. Plumbing and sewer lines already there. Yes there would be some demolition costs but those same cost would be incurred in a complete demolition project. The idea of an outdoor arena or amphitheater that Scott proposes would also still have to be built or renovated from the original Coliseum structure and that would also have to be ADA compliant and very expensive. 
Being exposed to the outdoors Scott's amphitheater would then be open to the weather and that much less useful. My suggestion leaves the existing building which is a landmark both for it's architecture, past events and memorial status, and keeps it useful for the outdoor events staged around the building. Those events are part of the master plan approved by the voters and gives the space the flexibility it needs to be open to all the needs of the citizens. It would also be a lot less expensive to maintain. Further it need not compete with the ABC if management works together. It can enhance the ABC and increase profits for both the ABC and events like Buccaneer Days, Jazz Festival, etc. Further it would work as additional exhibit and sales space for events that take place in the master plan area of the bay front which would be on the other side of downtown quite a long walk to the ABC. In the end the structure would be saved and should someone come along with a better idea in the future the basic building is left intact.
Scott's idea would not be cost efficient with respect to the amphitheater or the park he proposes if the master plan approved by the voters is utilized. It would make more sense to landscape the parks with concrete pads and concealed power hookups for temporary structures like tents, and port-a-potties needed for large events. That would reduce maintenance, wear and tear and ease setup and tear down on these big events saving everyone involved big money. This by the way is another area of my expertise. 
If this area was to be used for events as designed in the master plan Scott's idea of selling spaces in the parks to concessions would be in conflict with the promoters of events who would loose money to the competition these permanent business's would create.
November 3, 2009
12:18 p.m.


Triscuit454 writes:
in response to diane#715068:
This plan is about as unrealistic as they come. We're talking about building a park and hoping that a hodgepodge of private developers will come together and build something cohesive. 
However, the Brass deal was cohesive, it was worth $100 million dollars and it would have come together if the city gave it a chance. 
Oh and don't forget about the 13 acres of parkland we took away from Brass after negotiations got underway. So there you go, Brass's 9 acres + 13 acres of park right next to it = Houston's Discovery Green.
Where was Mark Scott with this 'brilliant' idea before Brass came to the table. Don't fall for it folks. He just wants the coliseum knocked down and grass put in, so he can 'get on' with his life, as he put it in the letter to the other council members.
I've seen your Facebook page Ms. Metz (GROW! CC) and would like to know:
What exactly is your agenda? You are all for growing the city but at what cost? All you care about is the Brass deal whether or not it is what is right for the city.
After doing much research it is becoming increasingly clear that the Brass project was not the in the city's best interests yet you keep pushing for it like someone with a vendetta against Mark Scott.
One has to wonder about your tactics and what exactly your interest is in Brass.
November 3, 2009
12:34 p.m.


HowdyDoody writes:
Doing the park thang is a politically correct way of posing that you're doing something while not really doing anything.
November 3, 2009
12:52 p.m.


NoBullOney writes:
in response to hkarsh#290653:
The estimate was $10 million to renovate the current facility which would mean making the seating area ADA compliant, which would include very expensive upgrades. I am an expert in this area as I am the one who identified these very same issues at the Del Mar College's 1800 seat Richardson Auditorium. The DMC spent a great deal of money on an elevator to the balcony. What I am suggesting is a total gut job. This would remove all the existing seating and concrete risers. It would leave the building completely empty and flat. No need to make it ADA accessible accept for the entrance/exits and concessions and restrooms all which would then be rebuilt inside the existing structure. Plumbing and sewer lines already there. Yes there would be some demolition costs but those same cost would be incurred in a complete demolition project. The idea of an outdoor arena or amphitheater that Scott proposes would also still have to be built or renovated from the original Coliseum structure and that would also have to be ADA compliant and very expensive. 
Being exposed to the outdoors Scott's amphitheater would then be open to the weather and that much less useful. My suggestion leaves the existing building which is a landmark both for it's architecture, past events and memorial status, and keeps it useful for the outdoor events staged around the building. Those events are part of the master plan approved by the voters and gives the space the flexibility it needs to be open to all the needs of the citizens. It would also be a lot less expensive to maintain. Further it need not compete with the ABC if management works together. It can enhance the ABC and increase profits for both the ABC and events like Buccaneer Days, Jazz Festival, etc. Further it would work as additional exhibit and sales space for events that take place in the master plan area of the bay front which would be on the other side of downtown quite a long walk to the ABC. In the end the structure would be saved and should someone come along with a better idea in the future the basic building is left intact.
Scott's idea would not be cost efficient with respect to the amphitheater or the park he proposes if the master plan approved by the voters is utilized. It would make more sense to landscape the parks with concrete pads and concealed power hookups for temporary structures like tents, and port-a-potties needed for large events. That would reduce maintenance, wear and tear and ease setup and tear down on these big events saving everyone involved big money. This by the way is another area of my expertise. 
If this area was to be used for events as designed in the master plan Scott's idea of selling spaces in the parks to concessions would be in conflict with the promoters of events who would loose money to the competition these permanent business's would create.
So you're concerned about the competition that permanent businesses will pose to special events that happen two to three times a year? That's some expertise you have. The cheapest option available is to tear the crappy structure down and move on.
November 3, 2009
1:04 p.m.


bluegirlscout writes:
Mark Scott is to be commended. A memorial park is just the right thing. Other communities have done just this type of thing as an anchor for other developments. We need to capitalize on our beautiful bayfront. As far as maintenance costs, we didn't have the money to maintain the coliseum, columbus ships, the courthouse,..etc.. I think a park will cost tremendously less and maybe we can use the money saved on more cops and city employees to keep crime and trash out of it. Raze the Hut!
November 3, 2009
1:21 p.m.


LetsMoveForward writes:
This is a plan that everyone can live with and one that won't take years to complete. Let's get moving on this and get the Swim Center to set up somewhere else, maybe in the area around the new park.
November 3, 2009
1:55 p.m.


tincup200 writes:
in response to NoBullOney:
Read the article from 10/31 on why the deal failed. Or you can keep on waiting, if that works for you.
I see nowhere where the city was going to have to dish out millions of dollars. You need to brush up on your reading comprehension. If you are refering to the two million that the city was going to use to demolish the coliseum. Give me a break they should hand it over with a smile. Lets see I give you two million and in return I get 90 million back several hundred jobs, a boost in the economy an increase in my tax rolls. I think thats a good deal for a piece of property that has sat vacant and hasnt done a dang thing for me. Please nothing comes for free. Im still waiting.
November 3, 2009
2:22 p.m.


NoBullOney writes:
in response to tincup200:
I see nowhere where the city was going to have to dish out millions of dollars. You need to brush up on your reading comprehension. If you are refering to the two million that the city was going to use to demolish the coliseum. Give me a break they should hand it over with a smile. Lets see I give you two million and in return I get 90 million back several hundred jobs, a boost in the economy an increase in my tax rolls. I think thats a good deal for a piece of property that has sat vacant and hasnt done a dang thing for me. Please nothing comes for free. Im still waiting.
Ok, Einstein, I suppose you're still waiting for the content of the article to soak in. What part of Jon Marez's quote do you not understand?
"Marez said the city was developing what would have been the biggest incentive package the city has ever offered a private company. Brass asked for development fees to be waived, a lease rate less than half of what the city asked, maintenance costs covered by the city and sales tax revenues to go back into the project."
Over time, these concessions will add up to millions. All for a project that Brass intended to construct in phases, which meant that they would evaluate the economic merit of each phase before committing to the next one.
It doesn't take a genius to figure out that this whole project would never generate the kind of revenue necessary to stay afloat, even in light of the fact that the city would continue to subsidize it through taxes.
OK, sit there and wait some more. It might come to you sooner or later. For your sake, I hope so.
November 3, 2009
2:47 p.m.


NoBullOney writes:
Hey, tincup, you need some Marvel Mystry Oil to help that soak in a bit?
November 3, 2009
2:49 p.m.


APA writes:
Those of you that are for Mark's idea must be related to him. That land is to valuable to just have grass on it. We should call Landry's, Mr. Rowlands and whoever had some ideas and call all them back to the table and work something out. At this point a ferris wheel doesn't sound bad.
November 3, 2009
2:54 p.m.


SouthTexas writes:
in response to tincup200:
I see nowhere where the city was going to have to dish out millions of dollars. You need to brush up on your reading comprehension. If you are refering to the two million that the city was going to use to demolish the coliseum. Give me a break they should hand it over with a smile. Lets see I give you two million and in return I get 90 million back several hundred jobs, a boost in the economy an increase in my tax rolls. I think thats a good deal for a piece of property that has sat vacant and hasnt done a dang thing for me. Please nothing comes for free. Im still waiting.
Forget articles and let's just go to facts. You do not get a 90 million dollar project. Got that? You get a renovated coliseum with a hockey team and a facility which will compete with your own facility. They will try...not commit...not guarantee...not promise or anything that all you don't end up with is this one project. There was even a clause which allowed them to walk at a specified date after taking some pretty nice fees out of the two million which was being put in by the city. All the things you indicated as to jobs and about boosting the economy are no where to be seen if you actually go and look at the Brass deal as submitted on their letterhead. If you want to believe all that stuff they are saying go ahead. That is not the way these types of developments work and certainly not what was in this deal.
Remember that mall-Crosstown Commons-we gave them every incentive you can imagine but if you drive by their today I don't think you will see anything going on. Same for an outlet mall property the county just extended the lease for this past week. The all try to do a deal but at the end of the day that's all they end up doing. It might be time to deal with reality that no such development is going to take place at this point in time. The economics just don't work in today's economic environment.
November 3, 2009
3 p.m.


714544 writes:
Im wondering who owns the land around the coliseum????any coucil members or any of the big contributors who did not want the SA firm to come here...????Good ol boy politics....that why CC is last in the stated for growth...except the weeds and the stabbings ...lol
November 3, 2009
4:32 p.m.


grammaton.cleric461#719864 writes:
i got a great idea how about a new county jail on the site
November 3, 2009
4:32 p.m.


Atlas_Shrugged writes:
Make a large park, easier to mow some grass than pay a mortgage on some under producing business or building. Look at the county fair grounds and baseball field. IF it will make money, private industry will build it, if it will lose money, government will build it and keep it losing money.
November 3, 2009
4:59 p.m.


Jesus_Christ writes:
Come November 10th, no council-person should leave this meeting until a definitive solution is in place. That's how you "get on with your lives."
November 3, 2009
5 p.m.


borntobewild writes:
I was shocked to see so many people support Mark Scott's proposal. It appears he had people lined up to write in positive comments. Why didn't we hear from them before this?
I will not support this idea. I am for revisting the Brass concept. I want jobs not grass and opportunities for trash all around the area and another place for taggers to leave their mark. Oh, and don't forget the drive-bys.
November 3, 2009
5:11 p.m.


corpusnews writes:
in response to rubine99:
A park is a great idea, but not his park. We don't have enough great parks in Corpus. Maybe some playgrounds for kids of all ages (there is barely anything for toddlers here), a little wading pool, maybe even a work out area (Venice's muscle beach style). I can see vendors selling things in the summer. Just something nice for families to motivate us to get off our couches and to get active.
We do have enough parks in Corpus, virtually every neighborhood has one. Cole Park is just up the street! The only thing is that no one goes to the neighborhood parks anymore because the thugs and no goods hang out there.
November 3, 2009
5:33 p.m.


bluegirlscout writes:
in response to borntobewild:
I was shocked to see so many people support Mark Scott's proposal. It appears he had people lined up to write in positive comments. Why didn't we hear from them before this?
I will not support this idea. I am for revisting the Brass concept. I want jobs not grass and opportunities for trash all around the area and another place for taggers to leave their mark. Oh, and don't forget the drive-bys.
Maybe you just haven't been listening! You know, pork projects that soak taxpayers are bad when the Federal and State government does them. They are bad when local government does them as well. It seems to me that mowing some grass will cost much less than, gee, I don't know - trying to maintain an asbestos-filled, not-up-to-code,falling-down eyesore of a Quonset hut. If you want the Brass deal - feel free to send them a check! For me, I'd rather have an attractive green space with some statues and pathways and spend the money saved on more cops and lawnmowers to keep it nice. Besides, we see the fallacy of "paving paradise to put up a parking lot". We own the rotting Coliseum and can't get rid of it. Once that fantastic open green natural resource is gone, we will not get it back. A memorial park is much more fitting for the whole community than Brent's ice fantasy and apt/condo's for the ultra rich. Those can still be built if the project is worthy - just not on MY bayfront.
November 3, 2009
5:37 p.m.


padregriff#245343 writes:
Tear it down and place a memorial. Put out an RFP with the building out of the way and watch the developers come. The coliseum is the detriment to this prime location. There needs to be a draw for the community and tourists alike and another green space will be another drain on the taxpayer. Let it be developed, the tourists will come and we'll be happy to take their money. If you have something worthwhile the tourists will come and and spend they will.
November 3, 2009
7:08 p.m.


tincup200 writes:
in response to NoBullOney:
Read the article from 10/31 on why the deal failed. Or you can keep on waiting, if that works for you.
You win. it is apparent that you are anti growth, and lack the forsight to make informed decisions. I agree that we the tax payers will have to foot some of the bill for this project to come to fruition. The commons, the outlets they will happen. thats a horse of a diffrent color. Its the way it goes when you stay stagnent for years and chase away every developer that comes to this town. You have to give to recieve. Its why we have the Bank center the Ball Park, Auquarium. We could have had so much more by now but people get caught up in the whats in it for me mind set. Sir continue to be negative for our city you have a few folowers here. It is people like you that hurt this city. Good luck. You should start your own facebook page. Against Growth!!
November 3, 2009
8 p.m.


lnstst8#314947 writes:
According to Men's Health magazine, Corpus Christi made the Top 10 for being the dumbest city; well, it is living up to it's top 10 billing. They must be sitting on the Council for sure. Oh, but wait, that's not all, the city is also in the Top 10 for the worst roadways,and having the fattest population
Yep, let's build another Park so the vagrants can hang out and bother tourist with their pathetic quest to get money for their drug and alcohol addictions. What a brilliant idea. Doesn't take much to run for city council does it. Lets spend thousands on another study to see if it is feasable to build a park; no wait, lets put a swimming pool; no wait, lets put it on the back burner and think about it for 5 more years. Hey mabye by then, a Katrina like storm will blow the antiquated eye sore and do the " i cant make a decision" council a favor and blow it all down; and leave the mess there until they decide to remove the debris or saving it as a historical monument that was. Yeah Baby!
November 3, 2009
8:10 p.m.


SouthTexas writes:
in response to tincup200:
You win. it is apparent that you are anti growth, and lack the forsight to make informed decisions. I agree that we the tax payers will have to foot some of the bill for this project to come to fruition. The commons, the outlets they will happen. thats a horse of a diffrent color. Its the way it goes when you stay stagnent for years and chase away every developer that comes to this town. You have to give to recieve. Its why we have the Bank center the Ball Park, Auquarium. We could have had so much more by now but people get caught up in the whats in it for me mind set. Sir continue to be negative for our city you have a few folowers here. It is people like you that hurt this city. Good luck. You should start your own facebook page. Against Growth!!
You are so far off base on your assumptions that it's sad in a way. There are many who oppose the Brass plan for one reason and one only--it's a bad deal with NOTHING beyond a renovated out of date facility being the home of a hockey team. The people you think are anti growth actually in many cases are the same one's who wanted the Landry's deal, voted for ABC and Whataburger Field, and supported the resort on the Island. Yet you insist on thinking that they are anti growth. Well without the support of all these anti growth people the few things that have happened would not have.
These may be faceless posts but I can promise you that many of the biggest pro growth supporters over the last decade recognize a bad deal when they see one and are not afraid to say so.
November 3, 2009
8:48 p.m.


Triscuit454 writes:
in response to SouthTexas:
You are so far off base on your assumptions that it's sad in a way. There are many who oppose the Brass plan for one reason and one only--it's a bad deal with NOTHING beyond a renovated out of date facility being the home of a hockey team. The people you think are anti growth actually in many cases are the same one's who wanted the Landry's deal, voted for ABC and Whataburger Field, and supported the resort on the Island. Yet you insist on thinking that they are anti growth. Well without the support of all these anti growth people the few things that have happened would not have.
These may be faceless posts but I can promise you that many of the biggest pro growth supporters over the last decade recognize a bad deal when they see one and are not afraid to say so.
Thank you!
November 3, 2009
9:35 p.m.


haceunano writes:
in response to BW:
Mark has got the right idea. But lets not make it a WWII war memorial but a Veterians Memorial. At this point the WWI Vets are honored on Upper Broadway, Viet Nam Vets, at the County Court House. I don't know were the Korean Vets have been honored. There are many vets who lost their lives outside a defined war. Let us not forget them and their families. As Mark indicated let us call upon our vets to bring about a memorial that they would be proud of for their fallen buddies. I believe that such a Memorial could be easily financed in part from the commuity and the various Veterians Org. such as the VFW, GI Forum, The Gold Star Mother, and those surviving vets who want to remember their fallen classmates. Lets not forget the Navy and Army at NAS. Lets not make it a CC memorial but a South Texas Memorial to inclued Nueces, San Pat, Aransas, Jim Wells, and Kleburg counties. Maybe 1/2 to one acre of land.
Lets do it right this time.
Do not give away our beautful bayfront to private developers. If the Brass project had gone thru if you wanted to visit Magee Beach you would have had to park in a seven story parking garage. Their is more than enought private propety between Shoreline and Water for a Brass Project.
I had an uncle born and raised in CC, killed during WWII buried in France and his name does not appear on the plaque. I am also a Viet Nam era vet (1966-1970).
BW: How you be forgetting Duval County Vets.
November 3, 2009
9:37 p.m.


Ag4Life writes:
in response to SouthTexas:
You are so far off base on your assumptions that it's sad in a way. There are many who oppose the Brass plan for one reason and one only--it's a bad deal with NOTHING beyond a renovated out of date facility being the home of a hockey team. The people you think are anti growth actually in many cases are the same one's who wanted the Landry's deal, voted for ABC and Whataburger Field, and supported the resort on the Island. Yet you insist on thinking that they are anti growth. Well without the support of all these anti growth people the few things that have happened would not have.
These may be faceless posts but I can promise you that many of the biggest pro growth supporters over the last decade recognize a bad deal when they see one and are not afraid to say so.
I thank you too. So many of these posters just want growth for the sake of growth, not taking the economic viability of the project into consideration. This is exactly why we have so many past ventures that are now nothing more than a drain on our hard-earned tax dollars, (i.e., American Bank Center, the Richard Borchard Fairgrounds, Columbus ships, to name a few).
Yes, we needed the Landry's development. And we lost out on the Sea World opportunity. Those were chances of a lifetime that we'll never get back. The Brass deal was bad, no question about it. But we will continue to be called anti-growth for voicing our opposition to those projects that have no economic justification.
November 3, 2009
11:02 p.m.


grammaton.cleric461#719864 writes:
Im telling you a new county jail this would be the perfect spot.
November 3, 2009
11:42 p.m.


jeezOtsk writes:
Boy this has been dragging on far too long with that Shoreline Bunker.
Why not just tear it down and put up a HUGE Stainless Steel or Bronze Knife on a mount. As Corpus is known to be called "The Stabbing Capital" to some people I've read in the past Caller Times comments.
Thugs and their families will love to have their pictures taken beside one just like the Selena statue...No offense and my bad the council needs to make a decision.
November 4, 2009
4:19 a.m.


LRS writes:
City council leaves a viable and iconic building vacant for several years without performing routine maintenance, then without much explanation turns down every opportunity to re-lease the space and lets it become an eyesore. Only then does the longer term planning become apparent. "Nearby land owners" will be given "incentives" (read cold, hard cash) to develop their own land. And who are those nearby land owners? Texas politics never really changes, does it?
November 4, 2009
5:36 a.m.


nepdcc#401467 writes:
This property is already a park. We can make it a better park with or without the coliseum. The idea of an open air pavilion is the best concept to prevent the demolition of a great building. The developers can always develop the already-private property behind the park area between Water St. and the coliseum. We must keep our public park areas public. Never, never give public land to private developers!
November 4, 2009
7:33 a.m.


ilovecc writes:
We have families desperately working to keep their homes and put food on the table and Mark Scott wants to build a park.
Try explaining the merit of a new park to a child who overhears his/her parents concern about living on one income.
Try explaining that to the small business owner who can't keep the doors open for lack of customers.
Try explaining that to the college graduate who would like to come home to Corpus Christi but can't because the job opportunities are few.
Finally, try explaining that to the people who make their lives here, pay ever increasing property taxes and truly see what the potential for this city is, without anyone whispering in their ear on how to call it.
November 4, 2009
8:30 a.m.


dwp007#715457 writes:
Local politicians like Mark Scott have historically spoken for themselves. We remain the same, or less, while other cities progress and advance. McAllen has more economic growth and development than Corpus Christi for heaven's sake.
It's time for Scott and other habitual council members to either expand their small town, anti business, ridiculous thinking or step aside. Regardless, it's also time for voters to understand what's going on and step up. Until then, we will remain the city of 30 years past and continue to get left behind.
The untapped potential for Corpus Christi is enormous and we could easily become an area thriving with business opportunities and tourism as well as jobs, jobs and more jobs.
San Antonio has a river. We have an ocean.
November 4, 2009
8:50 a.m.


jillbean99#233442 writes:
I really think that everyone who is posting their opposition to this plan has never been to Discovery Green. It's not just a big open space with grass and some park benches! It has restaurants, playgrounds, a dog park, a fountain for kids to play in (you know, the kind where water spouts up from the ground), a pond with motorized boats for the kids to play with, and an outdoor amphitheater. They have free yoga classes and various performances out there all the time. It really is a great idea! Look into it a little bit before you shoot it down. The bottom line is, downtown Corpus will never be what it could be until the Coliseum is gone. Take a deep breath and accept it.
November 4, 2009
2:40 p.m.


OilfieldTrash2009 writes:
in response to jillbean99#233442:
I really think that everyone who is posting their opposition to this plan has never been to Discovery Green. It's not just a big open space with grass and some park benches! It has restaurants, playgrounds, a dog park, a fountain for kids to play in (you know, the kind where water spouts up from the ground), a pond with motorized boats for the kids to play with, and an outdoor amphitheater. They have free yoga classes and various performances out there all the time. It really is a great idea! Look into it a little bit before you shoot it down. The bottom line is, downtown Corpus will never be what it could be until the Coliseum is gone. Take a deep breath and accept it.
Have you ever been to a park in Corpus Christi? 
"It's not just a big open space with grass and some park benches! It has restaurants, playgrounds, a dog park" We wil have Tamales, and turkey legs,no grass and stray pit bulls.
"a fountain for kids to play in (you know, the kind where water spouts up from the ground), a pond with motorized boats for the kids to play with, and an outdoor amphitheater"
We will have Nasty water in fountain (water gardens) Dirty diapers in the pond alond with lots of old turkey leg bones. trash all over the amphitheatre (look at the one at Cole park)
I agree tear it down but if you think it will ever be even close to Houston or Austin keep dreaming. I wish it was true but in a year or two it will be just like the other attractions in town. Drive around and look. Columbus ships good example, Kids Place another,Water Gardens another,It goes on and on.
November 5, 2009
9:41 a.m.


rotts123 writes:
This is your city fathers at work they do nothing. All that is done in Corpus is for the few not the city as a whole. Corpus is a DEAD end town it will be until the city council listens to the people. How many young men and women that are college graduates stay in Corpus? Corpus has NOTHING for them. Corpus has nothing for anyone to do no where to go nothing. Why do we not have a water park? Growth that is a joke Corpus will never grow to anything it has nothing to offer,
November 5, 2009
10:44 a.m.


1Colts_Fan writes:
Question.... Why would you build a park for kids to play on between two major busy roads? Just asking...
November 5, 2009
12:08 p.m.


CF writes:
in response to 1Colts_Fan:
Question.... Why would you build a park for kids to play on between two major busy roads? Just asking...
If the city sticks to the already-approved MASTERPLAN, both directions of Shoreline are to be re-routed to the west side of the coliseum site. All of the parkland along the bayfront would go right up to the seawall. And for the record -- the city doesn't take very good care of current parks but that is no reason not to establish any more.


November 5, 2009
12:17 p.m.


CarpeDiem writes:
in response to CF:
If the city sticks to the already-approved MASTERPLAN, both directions of Shoreline are to be re-routed to the west side of the coliseum site. All of the parkland along the bayfront would go right up to the seawall. And for the record -- the city doesn't take very good care of current parks but that is no reason not to establish any more.
" And for the record -- the city doesn't take very good care of current parks but that is no reason not to establish any more"
and rumor has it that our current Director of Parks and Recreation is headed about 160 miles down the road.
Deeper rumor has it that she tired of fighting a losing battle.
November 5, 2009
1:13 p.m.


bluegirlscout writes:
in response to OilfieldTrash2009:
Have you ever been to a park in Corpus Christi? 
"It's not just a big open space with grass and some park benches! It has restaurants, playgrounds, a dog park" We wil have Tamales, and turkey legs,no grass and stray pit bulls.
"a fountain for kids to play in (you know, the kind where water spouts up from the ground), a pond with motorized boats for the kids to play with, and an outdoor amphitheater"
We will have Nasty water in fountain (water gardens) Dirty diapers in the pond alond with lots of old turkey leg bones. trash all over the amphitheatre (look at the one at Cole park)
I agree tear it down but if you think it will ever be even close to Houston or Austin keep dreaming. I wish it was true but in a year or two it will be just like the other attractions in town. Drive around and look. Columbus ships good example, Kids Place another,Water Gardens another,It goes on and on.
All I can say is, with people with attitudes like yours we will never have progress even if Brass and Schlitterbahn and Bass Pro all decide to lavish money and build projects in our area tomorrow. A community can be a jewel or a trash heap but it takes individuals who will get off their keyboards and their arses and do something about it. There is a Boy Scout troop making repairs on one of the Columbus ships. Girl Scouts make the time to have park clean ups. Church groups help paint over graffiti. Support these efforts or organize your own. Just don't expect out-of-town developers to solve our community's problems for us. Their only interest is making money. Not that there is a darn thing wrong with that. Just don't equate 4 smart people on the council who said no to a bad deal with changing trashy CC culture. They are not related. I drive past the Coliseum multiple times a day. At lunchtime today there were people in the parks on both ends picnicing and enjoying the beautiful weather. There were people up and down McGee beach. There were runners and skaters and moms with strollers all up and down the bayfront sidewalk. How many more might be attracted if there were some public restrooms, family friendly interactive stuff and multitudes of restaurants and shops where there are nothing but empty vacant lots now? Build those apartments one block behind the park. Anybody know what property values are like bordering Central Park in NYC? They don't even an ocean view! It has to be said that with current city budget shortfalls our leaders should really be focused on meeting basic needs before funding pie-in-the-sky projects. We are short more than a hundred police officers. Wouldn't cops be a better investment than a swimming pool to bring more development? Quality of life indicators include things like low crime, plenty of parks and yes, entertainment and cultural activities. We have plenty of over-capacity in the entertainment venue department. Let's clean up our act, literally, in the other areas. There will be better opportunities when the economy finally starts to get better.
November 6, 2009
10:23 a.m.


Catwomen writes:
The title should read "Council Should ditch the idea of revamping MC and consider making a new landfill for downtown" becuase if they go through with this plan thats excatly what it will become. WE cant even keep up with out city parks we have now let alone an other 10 acre park withuntrimmed trees and bushes.
November 7, 2009
2:33 p.m.


ljlandingham#311932 writes:
You will never be able have anyone agree to anything in that rotten armpit of a town called Corpus Christi. I know...I lived there for two hellish years. Great place to visit and fish. Terrible place to live.
November 8, 2009
7:35 a.m.


Hecho writes:
How I wish I could take back my vote for the man who singlehandedly DIMINISHED the opportunity for prosperity in this town. Mark Scott's loser mentality will be his legacy. I find him disgusting!!!!!!!!!
November 8, 2009
10:08 a.m.


melintexas writes:
More and more I'm starting to like this idea. I think it has merit. I think it could be beautiful and I think it could encourage development too and support owners of land around the coliseum. I think Bay Vista has proven people want to live downtown. I just bought a seccond condo downtown too. Residents and developers alike are all wanting something to happen and want to live here and enjoy the bayfront.
November 10, 2009
1:26 p.m.


sweetcakes writes:
OMG another park????
November 12, 2009
11:01 a.m.


helenschatz#716992 writes:
I originally thought it would be a great waste to tear down the Coliseum when it should be useful for a water park and public swimming pool with a walkway flyover to McGee Beach but the City would never spend the money themselves and it is probably not a good investment for a developer. Therefore, I am going to jump on the band wagon to tear it down and make a park. We need to perserve the best thing Corpus Christi has (Shoreline Drive). It would be great for the veterens, the citizens and the tourists which seems to satisfy everyone at the least expense. Maybe the group wanting to purchase the Columbus fleet can put them in the park and help maintain it. I bet there are a lot of us who would volunteer to help take care of the park since we already know the City will be lax in doing so.