Board declines immediate purchase of surplus Disney playground equipment after cost and site concerns

Staff presented a time‑sensitive offer to purchase playground equipment that had been manufactured for Disney and later put in storage. Interim City Administrator Bridal Williams and staff said the vendor offered the city first right of refusal on the equipment, and that the playground had appeared in public displays at a Garden Festival.

Staff provided a cost breakdown: equipment and engineering approximately $56,006; safety surface (required because the equipment is surface‑mounted) approximately $48,089; and installation about $82,000, for a total project cost the city estimated near $187,000. Staff noted the equipment would require an appropriate site with accessible parking and that the city was considering the former maintenance facility property at 8th and Highland as a potential location.

Board members raised several objections: the site had not been fully planned or cleared for redevelopment; the property contains asphalt/concrete, requires demolition and possible environmental review for former maintenance uses; and the quoted price exceeded what members were prepared to commit without a confirmed plan. One board member summarized the sentiment with audible groans when the total was reported; the board directed staff not to proceed with the purchase without a clear site plan and additional analysis.

Staff said they would pursue quotes for demolition and environmental work at the 8th and Highland site and return to the board with further information. No purchase contract was approved at the meeting.