WEYBURN – City council greenlit a $61,745 project to resurface the aging rubber playground at Elks Park, despite the project coming in over budget. The decision, during council's regular meeting on July 14, followed a recommendation from Richard Henning, director of Leisure services.
The need for repairs was identified in 2024, with $55,000 allocated in the parks operating budget. An additional $17,000 originally earmarked for park lighting brought the total to $72,000.
“The recommendation is upon review of the bids submitted to the project that we award the project to DBO Industries for the project cost of 61,745,” said Henning. “This is over the $55,000 in the budget for this.”
Two bids were received. DBO Industries Inc. submitted a bid of $61,745, which exceeded the initial budget by $6,745, an 11 per cent increase. Park N Play Design Ltd., quoted $128,326, more than double the cost.
Coun. John Corrigan asked whether the city had prior experience with DBO Industries. Henning said that while Weyburn had not, Estevan recently used them and were satisfied with their playground and paddling pool resurfacing projects.
Coun. Todd Bedore asked for clarity on construction timelines since the park is well used.
Henning estimated three to four weeks for completion but said the city would work with the contractor to minimize disruption.
Coun. Laura Morrissette asked if the playground’s accessibility would be maintained with the new cushioned rubber surface.
Henning said the city will maintain the same surface that they have, which is cushioned rubber.
Coun. Kellie Sidloski asked what's the typical life cycle of the material?
City Manager Matthew Warren clarified that the resurfacing was prompted not by routine wear but by vandalism, with individuals picking at the material. Though the park is only eight years old, below the typical 15- to 20-year lifespan for such surfaces, repairs were deemed necessary.
Coun. Larry Heggs questioned whether insurance could cover the damage, but Warren said it wasn’t eligible.
Mayor Jeff Richards acknowledged the “incredibly significant” bid gap, prompting Henning to reiterate DBO’s local ties and Estevan’s positive feedback.
With council approval, work is expected to begin soon, aiming for completion by Sept. 30.
