Council accepts 2.33‑acre Shaughnessy Village park deed; construction to resume after suspension

The Los Banos City Council on March 19 voted to accept the grant deed for a 2.33‑acre parcel at Shaughnessy Village and authorized the interim city manager to execute required documents so construction on the neighborhood park can resume.

Public Works staff described the site at 1408 De Anza Way as including a stormwater basin and roughly 1.5 acres of park area. Interim Parks staff (presentation by Joe, Parks & Recreation) displayed a concept plan that includes looping walking paths, shaded picnic areas, a playground with sensory‑friendly elements, about 75 trees and four‑foot fencing around the play area. Staff said the park contract had been suspended in February 2024 and that accepting the deed would allow the city and developer to mobilize construction with reopening of the contract; staff estimated a potential grand opening in fall 2025 and noted playground equipment lead times would drive part of the schedule.

Several council members and staff thanked Stonefield Homes and the developer for completing the dedication. Council discussion touched on procurement: staff said the city could rebid the contract but that canceling and rebidding could lengthen timelines and potentially increase cost, while keeping the current contract would allow a schedule extension and limited price adjustments tied to CPI. Staff noted a likely CPI adjustment of roughly 2.7 percent and estimated that a full rebid could raise costs “probably in the 25 to 30% range.”

The council approved Resolution No. 6905 accepting the grant deed for the 2.33‑acre park parcel and authorizing the interim city manager to sign required documents. Staff will coordinate with the developer and contractor to remobilize construction and schedule a public ribbon‑cutting when the work is complete.