The Emporia Recreation Commission approved a change of insurance provider and discussed emergency policies during its monthly meeting Monday.
The board discussion on emergency policy for large-scale events began after the 3A state baseball and softball tournaments had to be moved due to rain and also had to be halted while in town because of heavy rain and a tornado warning. Program Supervisor Amanda Gutierrez says this will be a statewide discussion after the severe weather in Emporia and also weather concerns at the state track meet in Wichita.
The plan for local events essentially involves stopping the activity and sending everybody home if those events aren’t already canceled.
Separately, board members approved a new insurance partner. The board agreed to a policy through ICI at nearly $45,000, a $5,000 savings over the current policy through IMA Select. The review started as the Rec Commission looked for ways to cut down workplace compensation costs. Board chair Mike Helbert was pleased with the savings for taxpayers, and he says the new policy also reflects the need for more emphasis on cybersecurity matters.
The board approved the 2019-2020 budget for publication as well. The $4.9 million overall budget includes just over $4.5 million for the general fund. It may well be approved at the next meeting in July.
In other business, the board:
*Approved a new set of controls for the Lee Beran Recreation Center’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning units at a cost of $8,000.
*Received an update on upcoming ticket sales through the Kansas City Chiefs. Those tickets will be available for all home games, but there will be no discount as has been the case in years past. The Rec Commission will still get $10 for every ticket sold.
*Received an update on Jones Aquatic Center operations. May’s weather cut down attendance by 50 percent over last year, and the attendance impact of the Peter Pan Park splash pad has not been determined. Swim lessons are underway and most slots are full.
*Received a report on Summerscape, which is now underway. Attendance ranges between 105-112 students per day, just under capacity of 120.
