The YMCA also was granted an increase in its administrative fee to $20,000 in 2015, with it rising to $25,000 in 2016 and $30,000 each of the last three years. The YMCA was paid $15,000 annually in its original three-year contract.
“The YMCA has proven itself and its ability to manage a relationship, not just with the city, but with our community — which is of key importance,” City Manager Rob Schommer said.
City council did not open up a competitive bidding process after the YMCA’s initial three-year contract expired at the end of 2014. However, Jeff Blume, president of Dayton Pool Management, expressed an interest in taking over management of the aquatic center at a Public Works Committee meeting in January.
After considering its options, Schommer said, the city decided to continue its relationship with the YMCA.
“This is certainly not to say that no one else is suitable for the job, but the YMCA was competitive in their bid, and we feel they will continue our success,” Schommer said.
The contract was awarded despite objections from Mayor Tom McMasters, who believes that — had council engaged in a formal bidding process — another, cheaper option might have emerged.
“Obviously, we have an issue within the city with the way that we go out for bids with a lot of our projects,” McMasters said.
However, a cost model comparison found that Dayton Pool Management would cost a projected $34,224 more than the YMCA in 2015.
The Kroger Aquatic Center at The Heights will open its fourth season May 23. Membership and pricing information can be found at the aquatic center’s website at www.aquaticcenterattheheights.com.
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