CITY OF NORTH LAUDERDALE

PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT

TO: Mayor and City Commission

FROM: Richard D. Sala, City Manager

BY: Michael Sargis, Parks and Recreation Director

DATE : February 12, 2008

SUBJECT: Operational Changes to City’s Swim Team Program

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One of the main reasons to outsource the Aquatic Division operations by contracting with Jeff Ellis Management (JEM) in 2006 was to increase program levels as well as save the City money. We are please to say that after the first year of this arrangement, the City not only reduced the operational cost by approximately $40,000.00, it also increased overall attendance at the pool by almost 18,000 users as compared to previous year.

As we begin the 2^nd year of service with JEM, we are continuing to explore ways to increase program services/increase revenue, and or reduce operating costs. One option that has many benefits is to partner with the City of Tamarac and jointly run the Swim Team Program. The advantage of this partnership is that both cities contract with JEM for their aquatic services

For the past 15+ years, the City has run a Swim Team through private boards and if needed, with in-house Aquatic Division Staff. Prior to being elected to the City Commission, Commissioner Hilton served as the Team President and played a huge part in developing the team into a quality program. The City’s contract with JEM requires them to operate our Swim Team program. Keeping in mind the operational benefits and fiscal restraints, we approached JEM and the City of Tamarac about running one large swim team using both facilities, after some recent discussions with the City Manager and Commissioner Hilton.

Under the proposed plan, JEM will take our existing Swim Team and merge it into a large Team, drawing swimmers from North Lauderdale and Tamarac. JEM will run the program per their agreement, with both cities’ oversight. The following is a brief overview of how the Swim Team program will operate:

· JEM will either hire or contract with a coach. 100% of the dues will be used to pay the coach; neither City will collect any funds from the dues.

· Team will alternate practice site monthly – North Lauderdale will host practices March, May, July and Tamarac will host practices April and June.

· Each City will host one (1) Home Swimming Meet – last year we hosted three home meets at our pool.

· The parents’ board will work with JEM staff and the coach on fundraising issues. The board will have the opportunity to sell concessions and do fundraisers in both Cities.

By creating a duel-city program, we anticipate the following advantages:

• Increase pool capacity to provide swim lessons – last year we had a waiting list of at least 100 people for swim lessons.

• Reduce electric costs (pool lights and chillers) at pool during the months when the swim team will be practicing at the Tamarac Pool.

• By reducing the number of home meets, we will be able to open to the pool to the public on Saturdays and with the new amenities at the facility increase admission revenue.

• Team can draw on swimmers and business sponsors from not only North Lauderdale but also from Tamarac.

We look forward to the first Swim Meet and will keep you advised on other upcoming events throughout the season.

		PRACTICE INFORMATION Monday thru Thursday - March 3^rd thru July 27^th Practices will alternate monthly between Cities March, May and July in North Lauderdale April and June in Tamarac Group time will be set by Head Coach