In a recent government meeting, officials outlined plans for playground replacements at two local parks as part of the 2025 Capital Improvement Program (CIP). The VMCC Community Center Park and Southern Lakes Neighborhood Park, both over 20 years old, are set to receive new playground equipment. The project aims to maintain the existing footprints of the playgrounds, with potential minor expansions at Southern Lakes, contingent on necessary grading and reconstruction.

Community engagement is a key component of the project, with a survey scheduled to begin on September 30 and run through October 17. This feedback will inform the design process, ensuring that the new installations meet the needs of local residents. Two open houses are planned for October 29 and 30, where community members can view potential designs and provide input.

The timeline for the VMCC playground aims for completion before the summer months, when the facility is heavily used by children. In contrast, the Southern Lakes project is less urgent, allowing for flexibility in vendor timelines. The council will review the community feedback and vendor options before making purchasing decisions, with the possibility of securing discounts by the end of the year.

Additionally, council members discussed the positive impact of a school program called Spark, which promotes healthy habits among students. The program has reported that a significant majority of local teens do not engage in substance use, challenging common misconceptions about youth behavior. This initiative aims to foster a supportive environment for teenagers in the community.