Garland to repair park structures as Lincoln County seeks $53K for parking expansion

The Building and Grounds Committee of the Pataskala City Council convened on May 12, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding park maintenance and funding opportunities for infrastructure improvements.

The meeting began with a report on the allocation of $15,000 for repairs within the city’s park system. A company named Garland conducted a thorough analysis of all structures across the seven parks, identifying immediate repair needs and creating a five-year forecast for future maintenance. Following this assessment, Garland prepared bid documents, leading to two companies submitting proposals. The committee selected the lower bid of approximately $13,000, which includes essential repairs such as replacing shingles, masonry work at the municipal pool building, and addressing other minor structural issues. The contractor is scheduled to commence work on June 1, with an expected completion within a week.

Next, the committee addressed funding from the Lincoln County Parks District. The city is eligible for a total of $78,000 over five years, with $25,000 already allocated for a walking trail at Freedom Park. The remaining $53,000 will be requested to enhance the foundation parking lot expansion project. This funding, combined with an existing budget of $100,000 for the project, will cover design, bidding services, inspection, and construction costs. Additionally, Lanier will apply for a NatureWorks grant from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources for $150,000 to further support this initiative.

The discussion also highlighted safety concerns regarding the city building's preparedness for emergencies. It was noted that the building lacks fire alarms, which could pose risks during emergencies. The committee is considering identifying specific areas within the building as potential tornado shelters, given the current structure's limitations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city’s proactive approach to maintaining its parks and enhancing public safety. The committee plans to move forward with the proposed projects and funding applications, aiming to improve community infrastructure and safety measures in the coming months.