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Council authorizes planning funds for Twister Park revitalization
Summary
City staff presented a plan to replace aging equipment at Twister Park with an ADA-accessible, multi-generational playground estimated at $500,000–$600,000; council authorized up to $9,500 for preliminary design and fundraising materials and approved launching a community fundraising campaign.
City staff presented a proposal to rebuild Twister Park and the council voted to authorize initial planning and fundraising work for the project.
The presenter (Speaker 6) told the council the playground, built in the late 1990s, lacked sufficient revenue and was in need of replacement. "Basically, what we're asking is the ability to develop a new modern and inclusive playground at Twister Park," the presenter said, outlining a plan to remove existing equipment, prepare the site, install ADA-compliant surfacing and seating, and consider restrooms as an optional add-on.
The presenter described a preliminary budget of "$500 to $600,000" and a funding strategy that would minimize reliance on property taxes: 60–70% of the project would come from grants, community fundraising would target $240,000, and the city proposed a 12-month fundraising timeline beginning in July to support grant competitiveness. Staff requested authorization to engage CGA, the city engineer, for conceptual design work and to approve initial planning expenditures not to exceed $9,500.
Council members emphasized community benefits and fundraising prospects. One council member said there had been a "large outpouring" of interest in a prior resealing grant and another noted that nearby Memorial Park is heavily used but does not meet all needs for young children. Concerns about safety (an increase in wasp activity at the site) and long-term maintenance also arose from council discussion and public comments.
After discussion, Committee member (Speaker 1) moved to authorize the city administrator to engage CGA, launch the community fundraising campaign, and approve initial planning expenditures not to exceed $9,500; the motion was seconded by Speaker 8 and approved by voice vote. Staff said if fundraising and grant applications succeed, construction could begin in fall 2027.
The council’s approval covers preliminary design work and fundraising outreach only; final design and construction will return to the council for further authorization.
