City Council members voted unanimously at the February 7, 2022 meeting to approve a bid by Daly and Zilch to build a splash pad at Tom Varn Park. The project is expected to cost $400,000, and the contract with Daly and Zilch is for $398,000.
The Brooksville Kiwanis Club is contributing $200,000 to the project, and will be responsible for naming the splash pad. President Steve Smith expressed gratitude for the city’s approval. “This is a great improvement to the park. It’s a great place for kids to go, and stay out of trouble.”
The approval for the agreement between the City of Brooksville and the Brooksville Kiwanis Club was voted on separately. Commissioner Blake Bell recused himself from the vote, as he is a member of the Kiwanis Club. This agreement passed 4-0 after a roll call vote.
Parks and Recreation Director Angie Angie Whisnant added that there is a potential for a change in the contract (Change Order), which can increase or decrease the final cost. In this contract, Change Orders are treated on a “Cost Plus 15% basis.” Ongoing maintenance is not reflected in the contract.
Tom Varn Park is currently undergoing many improvements such as the Jerome Brown Community Center parking lot redevelopment, a new ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) playground, a new stadium roof, structural rehab for the stadium and ADA upgrades. The new splash pad will be constructed adjacent to the playground, on the northwest side.
Work is to begin within 2 weeks from the day the permit for the project is released.
