Adopt Resolution #21-255 Adopting Interim Playground Replacement Policy and Plan

The purpose of this case, is to consider Resolution #21-255 which would implement a Playground Replacement Policy and plan.  This policy, if adopted, will guide the programmatic replacement of the city’s approximate 17 existing playgrounds, which can then be forecast within the Capital Improvement Program.  The goal is for the Playground Replacement Policy (PRP) to inform the 2022-2032 CIP with specific years, estimated costs, and a replacement plan for Ramsey’s existing playgrounds and the associated park’s rejuvenation—as was performed in 2020 for Ford Brook Park.

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".

None required at this time—however, public notification and engagement is a key element of the implementation of the PRP.

Observations
The Park & Recreation Commission discussed the proposed Playground Replacement Policy in June, July, and August 2021—with the attached policy an outcome of the Commission's work.  This Final Draft, is deliberately entitled 'interim' as a working policy plan, in order to leave the door open to modify some of the details and processes of the plan, as the first playground replacement is actually undertaken using this planning tool.  Utilizing the scoring framework within the policy plan, staff would note that the first playgrounds to be considered in the next years are; Rabbit, Alpine and Solstice Parks—and that two, very old and rudimentary play structures are recommended for removal without replacement.

Additional observations include that 'doing nothing' with respect to playground replacements has a cost too, in that after a couple decades of use, playstructures tend to have increased costs of repair and maintenance (depicted in Attachment #2 ), and replacement components become increasingly unavailable.   

Alternatives
1) Take no action on this Strategic Plan item, nor the Playground Replacement Policy and plan at this time.
2) By motion or consensus, direct Staff and the Park & Recreation Commission to perform specific additional work on the draft Playground Replacement Policy.
2) Motion to adopt Resolution #21-255 approving a Interim Playground Replacement Policy. 

No funding is required for this policy consideration, however, the PRP and Resolution #21-255 recommend that the Lawful Gambling Fund be considered as part of the first playground's replacement as soon as 2022.

The Park & Recreation Commission and Staff recommend adopting Resolution #21-255 which would implement a Interim Playground Replacement Policy and plan.

Motion to adopt Resolution #21-255 approving a Interim Playground Replacement Policy.