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COMMISSION CONSIDERATION The proposed Gingerbread Preschool play yard was reviewed by the Parks and Recreation Commission at a special meeting on December 6, 2007. After reviewing the conceptual lay-out and preliminary cost estimate, the Commission strongly supported moving forward with the play yard renovation. Given current deficiencies in the main building and in an effort to minimize disruptions to the preschool program, the Commission also supported completing necessary facility renovations concurrently with the play yard upgrade. Commissioners also discussed possible renovation of the Gingerbread Preschool parking lot, but agreed to address the matter further when it reviews the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) later this fiscal year. A copy of the draft minutes of the Commission's meeting are included for the Council's review as Attachment 1. BACKGROUND Located in Amador Valley Community Park, Gingerbread Preschool serves 348 children each school year and 552 children during the summer day camp program. Children range in age from 18 months to three years. The facility includes an enclosed playground accommodating up to 48 children, generally supervised by four to six adults. Gingerbread Play Yard In fiscal year 2002/2003, $40,000 was allocated in the Park Renovation Fund to replace the playground equipment. In November 2002, staff researched options to replace the playground equipment within the existing infrastructure. Under current safety standards, the size and variety of equipment appropriate for the existing space would neither meet program capacity needs, nor provide the same developmental challenge and level of play that currently exists. Staff determined that the allocated funds would not be sufficient to provide comparable equipment and additional space would be required to meet program needs. In January 2003, staff began work with the Friends of Gingerbread Preschool Parent Board (FOG) to discuss a playground renovation plan. FOG was very supportive and immediately began raising funds for the project. In May 2003, the new FOG Board also supported the project, but requested improvements to the parking lot to improve safety and provide adequate parking spaces. In April 2004, FOG donated $12,000 to the City to complete a conceptual design and cost analysis for renovation of the play yard and parking lot. In fiscal 2004/2005, the play yard and parking lot projects were placed in the CIP as unfunded projects. In July 2006, FOG donated an additional $12,000 to the City to be used toward the projects. In addition, as part of the FY 2006/2007 Mid Term Budget and CIP review, the City Council established a capital project reserve of $45,000 for design services for renovation of the Gingerbread Preschool play yard. Page2of5