Agenda - Parks and Recreation Commission - 01/13/2022

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Park and Recreation Commission Meeting Date: 01/13/2022 By: Mark Riverblood, Engineering/Public Works Information Title: Implement Playground Replacement Policy Purpose/Background: 5.2. The purpose of this case, is to begin the implementation of the Playground Replacement Policy and plan, which guides the programmatic replacement of the city's approximate 17 existing playgrounds, consistent with the Capital Improvement Program. . It may be noted that this work is an extension of the City's 2021-2022 Strategic Plan action item #16 which states: "Establish a Funding Plan to Complete Parks Capital Replacement Improvements ". Notification: Observations/Alternatives: The Park & Recreation Commission developed the Playground Replacement Policy over June, July, and August 2021—and in September, City Council adopted by Resolution, the policy and plan. The plan specifies that two, very old and rudimentary play structures (Shawn Acres and Autumn Heights parks) are recommended for removal without replacement —and that the first playgrounds to be considered in the next year(s) are; Rabbit, Alpine and Solstice Parks. As Rabbit Park's playground ranked the highest for replacement, staff proposes that the city develop a plan to either replace the play structures in 2022, or remove them and add some sort of landscape improvements or other amenity in their place (consistent with the policy). This planning would begin by inviting the neighbors to the park (within the 1,500' walking distance) to express their interests . If for instance, there is little or no support for the playground's replacement, the Commission can focus on another playground this year that is also due for replacement. Polling the neighbors would begin by sending a post card, with the aforementioned invite. Attached is an exhibit that shows those homes that are within the 1,500' walking distance. Funding Source: The funding source identified within the Capital Improvement Plan is the Lawful Gambling Fund. Recommendation: Staff recommends sending the post cards out as soon as practicable, and if there is not demonstrable interest in replacing the play equipment at Rabbit, the Commission can proceed with planning for removal of the equipment there, and shift focus to Solstice or Alpine Parks. Action: By motion or consensus, direct staff to invite comment on a plan to address the playground at Rabbit Park Attachments