Owen Parks & Rec held a meeting on Monday, February 23 to accept a check from representatives of Prevail Bank for the purchase of new playground equipment for Mill Pond Park.
Owen Clerk Tracy Rau had asked for the donation. Prevail Bank Owen Branch Manager Carrie Heltsley had read about the need in the newspaper and talked to some of the bank people to see what could be done as they are the only bank in Owen. Rau said they wouldn’t have been able to get this done so soon without the donation. Heltsley said they will also be donating the funds raised at their May Shred Day. With the donation of $20,000 the name of the park will be changed to Prevail Park.
Rau said she found a replacement for the piece of equipment she couldn’t get but is waiting on a cost for the shipping. Parks & Rec gladly accepted the donation. Rau will get the equipment ordered. Committee member Rick Nelson said maybe they could get somebody local to pick it up rather than pay shipping. DPW Chad Smith said they might be able to do it now that they had a bigger trailer. Rau said they could also possibly save some money by assembling it themselves. Committee member Lonnie Kroeplin wanted to know if that would affect the warranty.
The committee plans to meet in the park once it is warmer and figure out the footprint for the playground equipment which will arrive in June. They will also figure out the signage for Prevail.
In a subsequent press release, Prevail President/CEO said, “At Prevail, we believe vibrant communities are built when we invest in them. We’re proud to help create a refreshed, inclusive space that local families can enjoy for years to come.” While Prevail Bank’s contribution represents a major portion of the project costs, additional funds are still needed for installation and ground-cover materials.
A formal ribbon cutting ceremony will be held when the project is complete, at which time the park will be officially renamed “Prevail Park.”