Request to accept in-kind donation of new playground at North Kipling Park - by Councillor Michael Ford, seconded by Councillor Brad Bradford

KaBOOM! recruits funding partners to provide the funds to purchase the playground equipment. KaBOOM! has been a partner previously with the City of Toronto in other playground donations, including successful builds in Glamorgan Park (2019), Driftwood Parkette (2016), Heron Park (2015), MacGregor Park (2014). Central to the KaBOOM! philosophy is the involvement of the local community in the design and building of the playground to strengthen community bonds. In the case of North Kipling Park, the non-profit Albion Neighbourhood Services Association is acting as a partner to recruit volunteers and help organize the project, under the supervision of Parks, Forestry and Recreation. In normal times, a KaBOOM! project involves community volunteers in the actual building of the playground. Due to the COVID-19 emergency, KaBOOM! proposes to modify its format to fall within public health requirements in place at the time of the installation and subject to approval by the City. For example, professional installers would undertake more of the work, like a regular construction site. The community will be involved in other ways, such as a virtual Design Day prior to the build, and community events that may take place after the build under the safety guidelines of Toronto Public Health and any other relevant authorities. The playground itself would not be open to the public until the current Provincial Order that closes playgrounds is lifted. Any increased costs due to a modified construction process would be borne by KaBOOM. The installation is planned for Fall 2020, obeying all regulatory restrictions under the COVID-19 emergency. All work would also be done in accordance with the City's policies and contractual obligations, including the Fair Wage Policy and Labour Trades Contractual Obligations in the Construction Industry. The new playground would replace an aging playground on the site. As such, ongoing maintenance and inspection is already part of the Parks, Forestry and Recreation operating budget. KaBOOM! requires a one-time $8,500 USD community commitment which would be accommodated through the Approved 2020 Parks, Forestry and Recreation Operating Budget. This Motion is considered urgent to meet donor deadlines and to assure sufficient time for the playground equipment to be fabricated prior to installation.

to accept and install the playground equipment at North Kipling Park on terms and conditions satisfactory to the General Manager, Parks, Forestry and Recreation, in a form satisfactory to the City Solicitor, and within public health regulations with respect to COVID-19.