Police outreach coordinator pitches inclusive Library Park playground; committee to pursue fundraising and design outreach

Abby, the production and outreach coordinator in the police division, told the Parks & Recreation Committee that community partners and families have strong interest in an inclusive playground at Library Park and that the city currently lacks a fully inclusive play site. "We don't have one in the city," Abby said, noting she has a four-year-old with Down syndrome and has been speaking with local providers and organizations to assess need and fundraising capacity.

Abby said high-quality inclusive equipment can cost between $400,000 and $800,000 and recommended forming a steering committee to lead fundraising and design. "Fundraising can take anywhere from 18 months to 2 years," she said, and offered a 75-page packet of materials and local vendor contacts for the committee to review.

The committee reiterated the need to balance neighbor concerns about preserving green space with accessibility goals. The chair said federal funding previously identified for Library Park was withdrawn and staff will restart community outreach and grant-seeking to refine a design that retains open play space while improving access.

Abby and staff suggested a mixed funding approach of community fundraising with grant applications and private sponsorships. Committee members offered logistical support: an existing 501(c)(3) paperwork was raised as a possible vehicle for donations, and one member said staff could assist with restarting nonprofit registration if needed.

The committee did not take a formal vote but directed staff to continue outreach and to circulate Abby's packet to members for review ahead of future budget discussions.