Woodbury council approves $345,000 for two playground replacements after debate over design and engagement

The Woodbury City Council on Wednesday awarded contracts not to exceed $345,000 to replace playgrounds at Pioneer Park and Carver Lake Park, approving Resolution No. 25-92 on a 4-1 roll-call vote.

Council members discussed concerns about whether the new designs preserve larger play structures used by older children and whether the Parks and Natural Resources Commission and staff had allowed sufficient community review before the contract award.

Council member Wilson said the community’s worry is that replacements are losing larger structures for older children: "I would like to see a playground that is going to have a toddler area, yes, but also more amenities for older children." Wilson also said she will vote against the contract because she wants more time and community engagement on the final design.

Michelle Okada, Parks and Recreation staff, defended the department’s process and said safety, budget and equipment availability affected what fits in the playground “container.” Okada told the council that staff used a vendor under state contract to present a base playground and then sought public feedback; she added, “Playgrounds are very subjective... I can't guarantee that any 1 process will get us to everyone will love it.”

Okada described efforts to broaden inclusivity in the replacement designs, including a “flex swing” intended to maintain overall swinging capacity while adding an accessible option for children and adults with disabilities. She said staff compared multiple vendors and considered maintenance and parts availability when selecting vendors.

Council members pressed staff on process and precedent. Several council members said they support the city’s community engagement structures and volunteer commissions but asked whether the commission should be given clearer authority or more time to review future designs. Council member Morris suggested directing staff to provide PNRC earlier access to plans. Mayor Burt and other council members noted the city already follows an engagement process and that the commission had reviewed the designs.

At the meeting, Council member Morris introduced the motion to adopt Resolution 25-92 to award playground replacement contracts to Landscape Structures Inc. and Flagship Recreation for a combined amount not to exceed $345,000. The motion passed with Council member Wilson voting no and the other members voting aye.

The council also discussed options for providing more time and clearer expectations for the Parks and Natural Resources Commission on future playground replacements and directed staff to prepare a memo describing options for increased PNRC involvement and possible workshop discussion.

The contracts authorize procurement and implementation; any specific design changes beyond what was presented will require staff action or further council direction if the commission or residents request appeals.