The City of Marion’s new aquatic center will be opening later than officials had hoped. The original plan was for the Lincoln Park Family Aquatic Center to open for Memorial Day Weekend, but an up and down construction season has put the completion a little behind.
Jeannie Brewer, the aquatic center director, told the Municipal Services, Parks, and Recreation Committee of Marion City Council Tuesday night that she cannot provide an exact open date. She said they are cautiously hopeful that the construction will be completed by the deadline Friday, but other issues will hold up the opening.
Issues that will still need resolved include the installation of various concession stand equipment, testing of all the equipment, and inspections and permitting by various agencies.
A couple council members expressed frustration that the opening is being delayed and question if there were any contract penalties for the construction companies. Jay Shoup, the city’s Service Director, said the contract does spell out a penalty of $1,500 per day following the deadline, which is Friday, May 25. Council member Ayers Ratliff said if the center does not open on time, he supports going after the construction companies to recoup lost revenue.
When questioned further about a possible opening date, Brewer said she would hate to promise June 2, which is a strong possibility, and something happen which makes that date impossible and thereby disappoint residents once again.
Brewer said they are planning to hold one or two special nights for those who have already purchased season passes to help make up for the late start. She said these nights would occur prior to the center opening to the public and would allow for dry runs for the staff and help with training. Over 200 memberships have been sold already.
Brewer also told the council committee that she has hired 30 life guards and 30 counter/concession stand employees along with three head life guards and one concession stand manager.
You can find more information about the aquatic center, along with information on purchasing passes, at their website, www.marionohio.us/aquatics.
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