Budget Amendment for Park Demolition Sparks Debate in Haymarket

The Haymarket Town Council approved a budget amendment on February 3, 2025, increasing the fiscal year 2024-25 budget by $111,749 to fund the demolition of the former Haymarket Food Pantry building at Haymarket Community Park. The funds will come from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which the council says was designated for infrastructure improvements.

The decision has sparked debate among council members and residents, with some questioning the public benefit of demolishing the building instead of repurposing it. During the public hearing, resident Marchant Schneider raised concerns over long-term financial impacts, particularly regarding the cost of future public restrooms at the park.

Schneider argued that tearing down the building might lead to higher costs due to removing utility lines, new tap fees, and increased construction expenses for new restrooms. He suggested that instead of demolition, the town should consider repurposing the building for public restrooms, a maintenance workspace for town staff, or an auxiliary office or storage space.

Schneider also questioned whether the demolition was a “sunk cost fallacy,” where the town continues spending money on a project despite rising costs outweighing the benefits.

Town officials defended the decision, stating that ARPA funds were designated for infrastructure projects and that future park improvements, including new restrooms, would be funded using proffer dollars rather than tax increases.

Town Treasurer Roberto Gonzalez emphasized that over $400,000 in proffer funds will be allocated in the next budget cycle to fund park renovations, including public facilities.

Vice Mayor Justin Gallagher acknowledged residents’ concerns but assured them the council had spent years evaluating the best course of action. He said that no matter how the issue is approached, funding will be required for new bathrooms and other park amenities and that the council had vetted the decision over the past four years.

Town officials confirmed that demolition will proceed under a temporary demo classification, which avoids additional costs that could have resulted from a permanent demolition designation.

By securing a temporary demo permit, the town will not have to cut and cap the water main under the new sidewalk, an issue that was previously expected to add to the project’s cost.

The demolition will begin this week, with contractors on site to cap water lines and install fencing before removing the structure.

The Haymarket Food Pantry relocated to Gainesville in 2020 due to increased demand for food assistance. Their new location is 7669 Limestone Drive, Suite 105, Gainesville.

The pantry continues serving Prince William County and surrounding areas, providing food assistance to families in need. Residents looking for support or donation opportunities can visit their website at haymarketfoodpantry.org.