Important Playgrounds update

Church Family,

This is an important update from the Facilities Committee regarding the large playground located at the back of the CLC Building. After careful evaluation, the Committee has determined that the playground structures must be removed due to some safety and liability concerns.

The equipment is over 30 years old, and the materials have deteriorated significantly. The plastic and rubber components are cracking, exposing rusty metal surfaces beneath. We have been aware of the declining condition for some time now, but the extent of the damage has become more apparent, especially during our recent Spring Workday.

The Committee recognizes the valuable role this playground space has provided for our children and families, and this decision was not made lightly.

Within the next few weeks, the structures in the large playground will be safely disassembled and removed, leaving only the elevated pad. The smaller playground near the Children's Area will remain as-is for the time being.

As we look to the future, the Facilities Committee formally invites the Children and Youth Ministry leadership, in conjunction with the Board, to develop a proposal for new playground structures. Although the equipment in the smaller playground remains usable, it is already 12 years old and showing its age, so a comprehensive playground proposal should consider both spaces.

The Facilities Committee will provide assistance, but we believe this decision-making process should be centered around the Children and Youth Ministry stakeholders. Given the expected size of this project, it will require cooperation with the Facilities Committee, in addition to the Finance Committee, Board, and Congregational approvals.

The rest of the Committee and I cherish the opportunity to continue working with you to create a safe and loving environment for both the church family and our community.

Robert Hollis,

Facilities Committee Chair

First Christian Church of Tyler