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Committee debates parks capital slate; splash pad and pickleball draw biggest pushback
Summary
Council reviewed 2026 park capital requests including an $800,000 splash pad (or $500,000 without restrooms), trail maintenance, Park Arthur turf upkeep and a 2027 pickleball complex. Aldermen expressed concern about timing and ongoing operating costs; staff recommended delaying some items until budget clarity.
City staff and aldermen debated multiple parks capital requests on Aug. 26 as part of the 2026 capital fund review, with the splash pad, pickleball courts and trail maintenance prompting the most discussion.
Scott (staff) presented the parks packet and said the top requests included maintenance for ballfields and turf, a splash pad at Vets Park and a new pickleball complex planned for 2027. He also noted two late additions: a trail design request related to a We Energies corridor and a trail maintenance line item.
Splash pad: two options and timing
Staff presented two splash‑pad cost options for 2026: an $800,000 configuration that includes two heated restrooms for year‑round access and full mechanical systems, and a $500,000 configuration without built restrooms (a vault toilet instead). The higher option would include utilities (electric, water, storm/sanitary as needed) and the lower option would limit on‑site restroom construction.
Aldermen expressed the splash pad is a community “want” rather than a near‑term need given competing priorities. One alderman said it should be deferred: "I feel like it's…
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