Adopt Resolution #22-090 Renovating Rabbit and Peltzer Park Playgrounds

The purpose of this case, is to implement Ramsey's Playground Replacement Policy by approving Resolution #22-090 which will provide for the renovation of both Rabbit Park and Peltzer Park's playground areas. Over the last few months, the Park & Recreation Commission has solicited both of the parks neighbor's for their desires for the playground replacements—with the proposed plans and corresponding budgets meeting almost all of their expressed desires.

 

127 households were sent an invitation to comment on Peltzer Park and approximately 93 homes in January relative to Rabbit Park.

Observations:

Rabbit Park:  Following the written comment from the neighborhood and the family that spoke to the Commission, there was solid consensus on how to move forward with respect to Rabbit Park—which can be summarized by:
~ Adding back a swing to the park
~ Keep large slide
~ keep 2 - 5 year-old play structure with climber 
~ Convert the approximate 3.5 acres of poor turf and sandburrs to a natural ground cover
~ Add trees near the play equipment for shade

Petlzer Park:  During the February meeting, the Commission expressed an interest in the refurbished playground presented to replace the decaying wood play structure at Peltzer.  In Addition, pursuant to Commission direction, a mailer was sent to 127 households around the park inviting comment—with only three persons initially responding, however considerable comment was received in-person from residents at the regular March Commission meeting.

Based upon all the discussion, input and ideas presented, it appeared the most feasible solution to addressing both park's playgrounds was to move ahead with the improvements specified above for Rabbit Park, and also add another play element like soccer goals to Peltzer Park at the same time as the refurbished play structures (attachment 5).  In accordance with this, staff brought an itemized budget for the March Commission meeting for Peltzer Park that coincided and included both the requests residents submitted before the meeting, and also the feedback that occurred at the regular March meeting.  Following the public comment, the Commission approved a work plan and budget for both Peltzer and Rabbit Parks. 

At the April regular Commission meeting, the plans were affirmed with no additional public input received and no objections to either park's plan—and also understanding that these projects would be before City Council on April 26th, 2022.

 

The funding source identified within the Capital Improvement Plan is the Lawful Gambling Fund.

The Park & Recreation Commission and staff recommend proceeding with the Budget and Work Plan that was developed over the last three months for both Rabbit and Peltzer Parks, which is the first attachment.  This would be approved by adopting Resolution #22-090.

Motion to Adopt Resolution #22-090 Renovating Rabbit and Peltzer Park Playgrounds