County cancels two back‑ordered playground items after delivered set differs from neighborhood plan

Stark County commissioners authorized staff to cancel two back‑ordered playground components for a Lakeview Park installation after neighborhood representatives and county staff discovered the equipment delivered does not match the layout the community expected. The board also instructed staff to pursue returns and refunds for the undelivered items.

Commissioner Claris said the delivered structure — invoiced to the county for $34,743.80 from the distributor Willie Goat for a “Big Sky” playground unit — differed from the equipment the Lakeview Estates neighborhood had selected. He told the board some parts were on back order until November and that cancelling those two undelivered components could avoid additional cost and allow the county to restart procurement with a local supplier if the community prefers. "We have a 25% restocking fee, and we've already paid about $3 in shipping... it's like a $15,000 problem we have on our hands," Claris said, describing the potential financial exposure if the county tries to return the delivered unit.

Commissioners discussed options including returning the delivered portion, finding a local vendor that could provide better matching equipment and allowing Dickinson Parks & Recreation staff to help with installation if the county proceeds. The commission moved to cancel the two undelivered items identified in the order — the balance/spring rider and a leap‑climber part — and the motion passed by roll call. Commissioners directed staff to seek refunds for the undelivered units and to report back on the net cost exposure for the delivered unit and on local vendor options. Dickinson Parks & Rec had paused installation work at county staff’s request while the commissioners reviewed the matter.

The project had been budgeted originally at a lower figure — commissioners noted $25,000 had been discussed earlier for playground equipment — and the current invoices and pending parts exceed that earlier estimate. Staff said they will return to the board with updated pricing for shelters, trees and installation so the board can decide whether to complete the project in its current configuration or to re‑bid equipment from a different supplier.