Council approves move to pursue splash‑pad and playground project; names Lisa Nicholls to lead dedication planning

The Waynesfield Village Council authorized staff to proceed with the proposed playground and splash pad for Waynesfield Veterans Memorial Park and created an ad hoc committee to plan a dedication event.

The park committee recommended a pump‑and‑dump splash‑pad system and playground equipment color schemes. Committee members noted battery‑operated low‑voltage valve controls, discussed whether to install a recirculating system (more complex and costly) and reviewed bench and surfacing options. Staff advised that a recirculating system requires frequent chemical monitoring and is more like a pool in operational complexity; most comparable municipalities prefer pump‑and‑dump systems. The committee also discussed sidewalks, bee/heat exposure at the pad edge, and timing: material lead time is roughly eight weeks plus two to three weeks for installation; the splash pad vendor requires one‑third up front if that portion is requested and that payment must be used within 45 days.

Council voted to permit administrators to proceed with the ODNR funding application and vendor scheduling so the village can position the project for spring installation. The committee said ODNR funding deadlines put the village on a timeline to have invoices and documentation ready for reimbursement; playground payment terms are net 30, splash‑pad terms are typically 50% up front/50% on completion.

Council also formed an ad hoc organizational committee for the park dedication and named Councilmember Lisa Nicholls chair to coordinate community organizations, veterans groups, the school and civic partners for a future dedication event.

Action and next steps: staff will submit required ODNR paperwork, confirm vendor scheduling and lead times, and return with finalized contract terms and a recommended construction schedule. The ad hoc committee will begin planning the dedication event and report progress to council.