Park board approves $74,122.64 for Goldman building repairs; board discusses ball-field overhaul and other capital projects

The park board voted to approve $74,122.64 in repairs for the Goldman building and discussed a larger planned overhaul of the city’s ball fields, procurement requirements and several other park capital projects during the same meeting.

The approved funding covers building repairs at Goldman that board members described as a package of previously quoted work: a new furnace, electrical work, an overhead garage door, interior painting, plumbing repairs including a water‑heater and shutoff valve, glass-block window installation where vandalism occurred, cleanup and dumpster removal and minor termite repairs. Board members said the HVAC work is finished and that electrical and door work were scheduled to start shortly. The motion to approve the $74,122.64 for Goldman building repairs passed by voice vote.

Board members also spent significant time on a proposed multi-field ball‑field renovation. Officials referenced work by David Vogel and a consulting engineer, David Bogle of Bogle Engineers, to evaluate grading, drainage, fencing and dugouts. A contractor identified as Greg (Greg Shore) and local contractor estimates were discussed. The board emphasized procurement rules: they need at least three vendor quotes, must account for prevailing‑wage requirements where applicable, and expect to follow city procurement procedures before awarding a large contract.

Participants discussed earlier bids and estimates: a 2023 comprehensive bid from a contractor called All Sports was cited at roughly $120,000; the board also noted a smaller $25,000 project previously completed that leveled fields. Board members said the timeline under discussion would start site work in mid‑August if required approvals and materials come together, with the goal of having fields usable that fall if irrigation and grass establishment are handled and water access is available.

Other capital items discussed included Sherman Park lighting, for which electronics maintenance was collecting quotes and estimated a cost “about $10,000, give or take”; Damon Park planning was postponed pending clarity on Goldman costs; and an urban forestry grant led by Wendy Van Buren that proposed plantings on Reinartz Boulevard and parts of Miami Park. Staff and board members discussed seeking state or federal funding for larger park upgrades, and the board urged ongoing communication with state representatives and city staff to pursue grant opportunities.

Several board members raised operational concerns while reviewing projects: the need for clear cost sheets and consolidated estimates for Goldman work, the importance of sourcing soil and calculating required fill for field grading, and public-safety/community concerns at parks (reported drug activity at Sherman Park and questions about lighting, access and vehicle turnover). The board directed staff to continue soliciting required bids and to return with consolidated estimates and any formal presentations from engineers and contractors at a future meeting.