The City of Newark service committee voted 5-0 to direct the service director to advertise for bids and, subject to appropriation, enter into contracts to purchase and install a new large playground unit at Wells Park.

Staff member (service director presenter) told the committee the playground project will be fully funded with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) dollars. The presenter said the existing playground is worn out and becoming unsafe and that the city wants to replace it with a larger unit intended for long-term use by children.

Committee member Mealy moved the item and a second was recorded; the committee unanimously approved forwarding the bid authorization to the full council. No appropriation or contract was approved at the committee meeting—the action authorizes the bid and contract process, subject to available and appropriated funds.

The service committee adjourned after completing committee business; the Wells Park playground authorization will proceed to the full council for final approval and any appropriation vote.