A final decision is looming for Davenport city leaders who voted Wednesday to move St. Ambrose University's stadium rezoning request to final consideration.
SAU hopes to upgrade its current softball field and two practice fields, and build a 2,500-seat stadium with a 400-meter track, shot put/discus area, and parking for 410 cars on the St. Vincent Center near Assumption High School.
Wednesday, the City Council voted 6-4 to move SAU's proposal ahead for a third vote. Aldermen Jason Gordan, Gene Meeker, Bill Edmond, Bill Boom, Jeff Justin and Kerri Tompkins voted 'yes.' Aldermen Rick Dunn, Ray Ambrose, Barney Barnhill and Mike Matson voted 'no.'
Wednesday's council meeting was once again standing-room only, with nearly three dozen people voicing their support and opposition for the project.
Aldermen have now placed nearly 20 conditions on SAU's proposal, addressing concerns ranging from trash collection to tailgating. Alderman Bill Boom called the conditions a "good thing," saying they should reassure neighbors that someone is listening to their worries.
Some council members, though, said they are still concerned about preserving the City's neighborhoods.
"I don't see how this thing could move forward without it having a huge impact on the neighborhood," said Fourth Ward Alderman Ray Ambrose. "We'll continue to work with St. Ambrose to try and find a compromise."
The final vote is expected in two weeks on July 9, 2014.