Council approves budget amendment and contract to install memorial adaptive swing at Rotary Park

The Nixa City Council on June 9 approved a budget amendment and a contract to accept a memorial donation and install an adaptive swing at Rotary Park.

Parks director Matt Crest told council the Burrough family is sponsoring a new commercial playground piece — an "expression swing" that allows two riders to use a single swing seat — in memory of their son, Noah. The family will pay the city for the equipment up front; the budget amendment appropriates the funds so the city can execute a purchase and installation contract with PlayCore (GameTime). Staff estimated lead time for playground equipment at about 12–16 weeks and said the city would take ownership and maintain the equipment after installation.

Resolution 2026-29 authorizes the city administrator to execute a contract not to exceed $6,937.29 with PlayCore Wisconsin (GameTime) for purchase and installation. Staff asked council permission to pay at order to capture a 3% discount; council discussed purchasing policy related to donor-funded items and agreed the process — with a memorandum of understanding ensuring the family provides funds before ordering — was acceptable.

"They're running about 12 to 16 weeks on playground equipment," Crest said when asked about timing. Council approved the budget amendment and the resolution to execute the contract; staff said a ribbon-cutting will be planned once installation is complete.