Title
Purchase of Playground Equipment for the Phoenix Subdivision Easement Property (B)
This item involves the approval to purchase playground equipment and its installation on the conservation easement in the Phoenix Subdivision deeded to the City of Gainesville.
Explanation
In 2002, the City annexed a large tract of land in the southwest quadrant of Gainesville, adding approximately 15,000 residents to the City's population. Increased recreation opportunities for Phoenix Subdivision residents were promoted as one of the benefits of annexation. Because the area was previously unincorporated, there were no existing City recreation and park facilities within the area.
On August 30, 2004, during the City of Gainesville General Government FY 2005/2006 Budget update, the City Commission approved $100,000 for a project titled "Land Development - Phoenix Playground". It was the City's goal to find, secure and provide recreational facilities in that general area.
In February 2005, the Phoenix Homeowners Association voted by a 2/3 majority to deed to the City of Gainesville a common area within the subdivision, for the purpose of installing children's playground equipment. A special warranty deed to convey this land to the City of Gainesville was recently executed. All land use, zoning and easement changes to accommodate this project have been made.
Two conceptual layouts of the playground area have been reviewed by the Phoenix Subdivision Homeowners Association board, and on July 12, 2006 the board unanimously approved the plan that included playground equipment from Bliss Products. The cost of the playground equipment totals $55,143. In addition to the playground equipment, additional features will be purchased such as benches, picnic tables, a grill, trash receptacles, a mulched area with wooden border, signage and a water fountain. The cost for these items totals $4,561.
Fiscal Note
The total cost for the playground equipment and added features will be $59,704. Funding for this capital purchase is available in Capital Fund 302 M323.
Recommendation
Recommended Motion: The City Commission 1) authorize the re-appropriation of Capital Fund 302 M323 for the purpose of purchasing playground equipment and related features to be installed at the Phoenix Subdivision in the amount of $59,704.; and 2) authorize the use of the remaining funds within Capital Fund 302 M323, for the purchase of additional playground equipment and related features at other city parks as part of our program to upgrade the parks.
Alternative Recommendation A: The City Commission deny the purchase and installation of the playground equipment at the Phoenix Subdivision.