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Commission tables Ridge Park playground decision, asks staff for lower‑cost options
Summary
Faced with playground replacement options that exceed the $125,000 CIP budget, the Parks Commission voted to table the selection and directed staff to return with lower‑cost proposals and cost reductions (e.g., smaller swing sets, scaled features). Commissioners requested clearer community input and options that fit the budget.
The Parks Commission on July 20 tabled a decision on replacing the decommissioned Ridge Park playground and asked city staff to return with lower‑cost options that more closely match the park’s $125,000 CIP allocation.
Adam (staff) presented four vendor concepts with prices that ranged above and below the city’s planned $125,000 allocation — options included a barn‑theme concept, and three Flagship designs with different slide, swing and canopy configurations. Adam said the higher prices reflect additional features such as shade canopies and larger swing banks; he noted staff can reduce costs by sourcing mulch installation or seeking donor‑funded benches.
Commissioners raised several concerns: the neighborhood size is small (roughly 40–60 nearby homes), the park’s circulation and nearby road crossings may limit access, and some members preferred a smaller set that preserves budget for other park needs (for example, disc‑golf amenities were suggested). One commissioner recommended consulting the adjacent homeowners association about benches and involvement.
A commissioner moved to table the item and ask staff to seek lower‑cost configurations; the motion passed by voice vote. Staff said vendors have current openings to install as early as August–September if a selection is made promptly, but tabling will push the schedule and prompt a return to the commission with adjusted pricing.
