New playground equipment may soon be added to Callahan’s Ewing Park.
Park and Recreation Commissioner Kathy Smith announced plans that include new equipment in two areas of the park.
The Callahan Town Council considered two bids. Equipment features include a decked piece that incorporates two slides covered by a shade sail. The other piece includes a slide, decking and a crawl tunnel for children. Total costs for the equipment from Little Tykes is approximately $47,800. A submission from BCI Burk Company was approximately $71,000.
The proposed project fulfills phases three and four of park improvements funded via the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program from combined grants totaling about $150,000. Town employees will fill in mulch to reduce costs.
Because the project is funded by FRDAP, the council discussed whether the pending purchase items were obtainable through multiple vendors. Any items costing more than $10,000 require submission under a competitive bid process of three bids.
These items are considered to be from a sole source vendor, meaning that the equipment is not available from any other area vendor, according to Town Manager Mike Williams.
The council opted to first check with FRDAP officials for compliance before finalizing the purchase of the Little Tikes equipment.
In another park-related item, the council voted unanimously to approve Ordinance 2016-O07 on first reading. The ordinance extends a $250 park and recreation impact fee to homeowners.
Town Attorney Jeb Branham suggested making the impact fee a separate budgetary line item within the town’s general fund so that fees are tracked by Quickbooks.
The ordinance takes effect within 90 days after adoption in accordance with state law, Branham said.
The council awaits news of a soil survey from the historic railroad bed along Brandies Avenue.
It could take a few more weeks before the results are returned, Williams said. The council has the property under consideration for purchase.
Councilwoman Janet Shaw sought assistance from the council for a property matter affecting her son’s new home build near Mickler Street and Fifth Avenue. She also plans to build a new home on an adjoining property that was split into two parcels next to her current home.
About 17 years ago, when Mickler Street was repaved, debris from the project was put on Shaw’s property. Although she allowed it, the debris has since affected some aspects of her son’s new build. A drain box near Mickler Street needs renovation. She also needs a second drain box added to her property. The approximate $1,000 cost would fall to Shaw. Councilman David Mellecker told Shaw that she would be responsible for a second drain box, since the lots were split. She plans to pay the cost.
Donation requests continue into the new year. Boy Scout Troop 351 Senior Patrol Leader Caleb Webb asked the council for monetary support. The troop attended the council meeting as part of the requirement for a communications badge.
Although Webb did not specify a donation amount, any donation would be appreciated, an assistant troop leader said.
The council will consider a donation amount Jan. 3. Town hall will be closed Jan. 2 in observance of New Year’s Day.
Branham will draft a resolution pending the approved donation amount.
The council unanimously approved a $300 donation to Callahan Middle School’s Advanced Via Individual Determination program. The non-profit assists children as they work toward college and career goals. Teacher Laura Mock made the request in November.
Also during the meeting, Mayor Bobby Rau read a special proclamation supporting Safe Cities Florida in conjunction with the town’s participation with the Florida League of Cities.