Council approves phased upgrades at Mason Community Center: four shower replacements and new fitness equipment

The Mason City Council on May 12 approved two related ordinances to invest in the Mason Community Center: replacing four showers in the family locker room as a phased first step and purchasing new fitness equipment in an amount not to exceed $70,000.

City staff said the community center was built in 2003 and expanded in 2010. Locker rooms are original to the 2003 facility and have aged; staff obtained a quote to replace all 18 showers at an estimated $300,000. Rather than close significant areas for a comprehensive remodel, staff recommended a phased approach, starting with four showers to test workmanship and limit facility closures. The council approved the initial phased replacement and staff said $300,000 was included in the 2025 budget for full replacement when feasible.

Council also approved an emergency purchase agreement with Design 2 Wellness for fitness equipment not to exceed $70,000. Staff said last year council authorized over $250,000 to replace about one-third of the fitness-floor equipment; the current purchase replaces three ellipticals, three treadmills, a step machine, a cross trainer and a plate-loaded Smith machine that are 10–20 years old.

Council discussion included questions about accommodations for families while work proceeds in the family locker room; staff said phasing the work would allow other locker rooms to remain open and the city would schedule work during the annual indoor pool maintenance closure when possible.

Council approved both measures with recorded votes and declared the fitness equipment purchase an emergency to expedite ordering.