Marthasville Mayor Dale Verges wants to make it clear. Funds that were used to build a new sidewalk along Highway D were provided through the federal stimulus program and could not be used to replace playground equipment that was considered a safety liability and removed. “The two are different projects,” Verges said. “It (the sidewalk funding) has nothing to do with playground equipment.” Verges responded during the Oct. 12 board of aldermen meeting to a letter to the editor that had been published in The Record. The resident stated she had been in favor of the new sidewalk to allow families to safely reach the playground, but questioned why the money couldn’t have been used for new equipment. The sidewalk project, funded entirely through a MoDOT enhancement grant provided under the federal stimulus program, allowed the city to build and replace deteriorating sidewalks, Verges noted. Marthasville was one of only two cities in Boonslick Regional Planning Commission’s three-county area to receive the transportation enhancement grant, which amounted to around $41,000. Meanwhile, the playground equipment, located at Marthasville City Park, was removed in August after the board learned it was unsafe. An inspection was performed by Brad Busekrus, grounds/maintenance director for the city of Warrenton, who also is certified in playground maintenance. “You can’t ignore something like that,” Verges said. “It’s a liability. If somebody gets hurt, and they find out the city had knowledge that the equipment was not up to standards, then you are really opening yourself up to a lawsuit.” Upon learning of Busekrus’ recommendation at a August board meeting, city staff roped off the area immediately. The equipment was removed later that week. “(Busekrus) looked at it and said it needed to immediately come down,” city attorney Chris Graville said. “I know people are unhappy with it, but sometimes it’s a tough decision to make because it was so dangerous.” The city does plan on replacing the playground equipment, though funds need to be raised. Verges said similar equipment to what was already in place is likely to cost between $20,000 and $30,000. Already, Valent Aerostructures — DACA Division, formerly DACA Machine and Tool, had pledged a donation for new equipment, according to Alderman John Graham, an employee there. City officials indicated some money in the park fund could be allocated for the equipment, but plan on seeking additional donations from local businesses.