The Planning and Parks Committee received an update on Village Green Phase 1 construction and approved formation of a volunteer fundraising committee to support Phase 2 inclusive-play equipment.

Why it matters: Village Green is a multi-phase park development central to Ward 8. Changes to utility routing affect project cost and schedule; Phase 2 fundraising will support inclusive playground equipment and donor recognition.

Phase 1: Director Rudich reported that Ameren Missouri will perform undergrounding work and change to a switchgear location that reduces a change-order cost by approximately $100,000. "That cost reduction is about a $100,000," Director Rudich said, adding that Ameren crews were expected onsite within days and the department had submitted a purchase order to council for the Ameren work.

Committee members asked about schedule and remaining work. Director Rudich said the contractor has completed substantial prework around utility conduits and that once Ameren completes undergrounding, remaining work should proceed quickly. The department reported about $1.5 million paid to date for work completed, largely for stormwater management and underground detention.

Phase 2 fundraising: the committee also reviewed fundraising materials for Village Green Phase 2, which will include an all-inclusive playground to be provided by Unlimited Play. The department described a brochure with tiered sponsorship levels, proposed donor recognition (digital recognition, grand-opening banners, commemorative bricks and plaques), and options for public art or commemorative features for major donors.

Paula Bassan, Communications and Economic Development Manager, led outreach to parents and potential volunteers; parents Chelsea Beaulieu, Kathy LaRocco and Valerie Peterson pledged interest in serving on a fundraising committee, and Council Member Rybluski also volunteered. Committee members debated sponsorship tier sizes and temporary versus permanent recognition; several suggested adding intermediate tiers (for example a $25,000 level) and ensuring corporate sponsorship pathways for larger donors.

Action and vote: a motion to create a volunteer fundraising committee and to move forward with Unlimited Play as the equipment vendor was made and seconded; the committee approved the motion (ayes recorded; no opposed). The department will finalize brochure language, donor-recognition options and a landing page for online donations.

Discussion vs. decision: committee approved forming the fundraising committee and advancing Unlimited Play contracting steps for Phase 2 fundraising. The Phase 1 undergrounding work by Ameren is proceeding under a purchase order already presented to City Council; staff will return with any needed change orders or timing updates.

What’s next: staff will publish the donation landing page, begin committee recruitment and meet with Unlimited Play for fundraising training; Phase 1 utility work will proceed as Ameren crews schedule the undergrounding and switchgear installation.

Ending: Committee members urged clear, simple donor recognition and proactive outreach at upcoming Celebrate Wildwood events to accelerate fundraising.