ORANGE PARK – The Town Council unanimously voted to table the $53,000 purchase of an “adaptive kayak launch” for Rob Bradley Conservation Park at Nelson Point from the company BoardSafe Docks on Tuesday.

BoardSafe, which has several kayak launches in Jacksonville, was vetted by Public Works Director Kyle Croce. He said that Orange Park has communicated with BoardSafe for about three months, including visiting Duval County to discuss the product.

Councilwoman Winette Sandlin said she had spoken with Croce and Town Manager Sarah Campbell about BoardSafe to gather details regarding the product’s reliability, citing information on warranties and the vendor’s reputation.

As the details of the deal continue to remain unresolved, it’s possible the cost of the project could increase since the bid is valid for only 30 days.

“We’re taking a chance on extending the price if we do (this),” said Mayor Randy Anderson.

However, council members didn’t proceed with the motion, raising concern about making a vote before bringing it to the Culture and Recreation Committee for further discussion.

The Council said they would like the matter brought before the resident-operated board before making a decision.

“I’d like to see this go through the Culture and Recreation Department. I know it’s a single item, but I’d still like their input and (then) bring it back to Council for final approval,” Anderson said before the vote.

Vice Mayor Susana Thompson and Councilman Daniel Cobreiro agreed with Anderson.

The Town Council is utilizing the Florida Recreation Development Assistance Program, which provides financial assistance to local governments to develop land for public outdoor recreation.

The FRDAP grant will match funds up to $25,000, which will help fund the development of the multiuse shoreline in Bradley Park the Council envisioned. The proposed adaptive kayak launch was fundamental to the overall concept plan.