Commission weighs options as Island Athletics operator prepares to leave; building needs costly repairs

Commissioners received an update on 9251 Grow Road, commonly called Island Athletics, and discussed efforts to secure a new operator as the current tenant prepares to leave at the end of its lease in October. “Island Athletics will be closing at the October, and I know that, we are exploring options for continuing to have that as an athletic facility,” Janelle said. She said the airport is talking to an interested manager and that the goal would be no interruption in operations, ideally having a new operator in place by Nov. 1. Commissioners raised financial concerns and long‑term maintenance needs. “We cannot subsidize a building that's, you know, costing us $40,000 a year,” Commissioner Filarski said, adding that the Commerce Park’s purpose is to support airport operations without burdening taxpayers. Another commissioner described a likely roof replacement cost: “The roof replacement, probably 500,000,” he said. Commissioners and staff also discussed the facility’s limitations for programming: the building was described as difficult to heat and cool, with constrained weight‑room facilities and other condition issues that limit potential revenue. A resident who spoke during public comment said the building is uncomfortable in summer and winter and suggested local demand for a modern rec center may be limited unless significant investment is made. Janelle said she and the township have sought grants for about two and a half years but had found constraints that prevented grant funding for the facility. Commissioners noted the commission has subsidized the building in the past to help operators get established but said any subsidy cannot continue indefinitely. No formal action was taken; staff said they will continue negotiations with the prospective operator and prepare financial feasibility information for the commission to review.