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WEIRTON -- A discussion on a possible continuation of a playground improvement devolved into a debate over the planned use of funds for improvements to the city's recreational system Wednesday.
The Weirton Finance Committee was presented with 10 items on its agenda, Wednesday morning, including a proposed resolution to allocate funds, not to exceed $89,134.61, for a second phase upgrade to the playground at Starvaggi Memorial Park.
"Maybe I'm forgetful. I didn't know there was a Phase 2," explained Ward 6 Councilman Enzo Fracasso.
In August, the Weirton Board of Parks and Recreation unveiled a new $250,000 play system at the playground, replacing much of the equipment and featuring a poured-in-place safety surface. Swings and some other items from the previous systems remain.
Ward 7 Councilman Terry Weigel expressed caution of the city diving into too many park projects, noting a concern of quickly expending $1.5 million allotted to the Park Board from the city's American Rescue Plan Act funds.
Parks Director Coty Shingle, though, explained there is still more than $1 million remaining of those funds, with some put toward the demolition of the Margaret Manson Weir Memorial Pool, an ongoing project for the south wall at the Millsop Community Center, the Starvaggi playground and architectural fees for other projects.
"Everything else is still in the beginning phases," Shingle said, who also noted the playground proposal had been suggested by Ward 1 Councilman Tim Connell.
Shingle said while there previously had been informal discussions for continuing the playground improvements, nothing had moved forward as the money wasn't available.
Weigel said, to him, the bigger priority is the replacement of Starvaggi Memorial Pool.
"I don't want to commit money to the playground if the pool may not open," Weigel said. "The vessel is shot."
Shingle noted work is ongoing for a design of a new pool structure at Starvaggi, with plans to begin renovations in the coming months.
"We intend to open the pool in the spring," Shingle said. "We intend to open a new pool in the spring."
Ward 3 Councilman Fred Marsh agreed the pool needs to be a priority.
"That thing was given to us. It's our responsibility to keep it open," he said.
The committee voted against recommending the proposed resolution, noting it will still go before the full city council Monday for consideration. It also was noted a workshop between council and the Park Board is in the works to further discuss ongoing planned improvement projects for the park system.
In related matters, the Finance Committee gave its recommendation to a proposed resolution allocating funds for the replacement of the pool heater at the Millsop Community Center.
Shingle noted the one which has been in place was installed in 2017, but has experienced mechanical difficulties and other issues, which he feels can be traced to the issues with the center's south wall.
(Howell can be contacted at chowell@weirtondailytimes.com)