During a recent government meeting, city officials discussed two significant projects aimed at enhancing community facilities.

The first topic was the replacement of HVAC equipment at the Hanna Community Center pool area. Officials noted that the current equipment is struggling due to the corrosive environment created by chlorine and evaporation. The city plans to award a contract to Nielsen Commercial Construction for $670,000 to replace this equipment. An additional budget amendment of $287,000 was also approved to support this project. The new equipment is expected to last 25 to 30 years and will allow for phased maintenance, meaning parts can be replaced individually rather than the entire unit.

The second item on the agenda was a proposal for a seasonal sauna park at 270 West Grand River Avenue. The park will occupy about 2,700 square feet of a vacant lot and will include two saunas, cold plunges, and a changing yurt. The proposal received unanimous support from both the Planning Commission and the Downtown Development Authority. The sauna park is designed to be temporary, with plans to remove all structures after the season ends in May 2025.

City officials expect the sauna park to attract up to 100 visitors daily, particularly on weekends. The hours of operation will be from 7 AM to 9 PM. Concerns about visibility and safety were addressed by modifying the design to ensure clear sightlines at the intersection nearby.

Both projects reflect the city's commitment to improving community amenities and providing residents with new recreational opportunities.