Council approves park-dedication policy, authorizes LC Stevens bridge bid and explores new park amenities

The Dayton City Council approved a cash‑fee policy for park dedications, authorized staff to go out to bid on a north bridge at LC Stevens Park, and asked staff to research a recreational inflatable "bounce pillow" as a potential new park amenity.

On park-dedication fees, staff proposed creating a dedicated community-park fund and using a split of fees to support neighborhood and larger community parks. Council discussed whether the current fee amounts capture actual construction costs and asked staff to revisit fee levels and include adjustments in the fee schedule; a motion to adopt the policy passed 5-0.

For the LC Stevens Park bridge, staff explained the scope and timing: bid documents would be advertised immediately, bids opened later in the month, construction to begin around Nov. 15 and substantial completion anticipated about June 30. Council debated design options and cost drivers but authorized bidding so the city can obtain actual cost proposals; the motion to proceed to bid carried 5-0.

On amenities, the parks commission recommended staff look into an outdoor inflatable bounce pillow. Council asked staff to investigate product options, maintenance and vandalism concerns, location and whether the amenity could be combined with existing playgrounds; the council authorized staff to explore the option (no funding was requested at this meeting).

Staff said the bridge and park-policy documents will be included in forthcoming packet materials and that the bridge bid and final park-policy materials will return to council for award and implementation steps.