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Officials weigh options as Oasis Splash Park faces $115,000 annual sewer cost
Summary
Park staff said a sanitary sewer hookup would cost an estimated $115,000 a year to operate the Oasis Splash Park; current permit and testing costs run about $40,000, and staff are evaluating options including converting the facility to multi-use space.
Park officials told the Michigan City Parks and Recreation Board on Feb. 5 that the Oasis Splash Park's operating cost could rise dramatically if the city connects it to the sanitary sewer.
Shannon, a parks department staff member, reported that the sanitary district provided figures showing an approximate $115,000 annual cost for water, sewer, electric and labor if the splash park were to hook to the sanitary system. That compares with roughly $40,000 a year the department currently spends on testing and IDEM-required permitting for the splash feature'which now discharges to storm drains with an installed dechlorination system.
Staff said the splash park remains open while they evaluate options, and they have asked the sanitary district whether it can continue required testing for another year to buy time for planning. The department is considering several alternatives, including: - Continuing current operations and regulatory testing (status quo) while seeking efficiency measures. - Connecting to the sanitary sewer (estimated $115,000/year operating cost). - Repurposing the site in line with the park master plan into a multi-use area (courts for pickleball/basketball, festival venue or a convertible surface that could become ice in winter).
Why it matters: the splash park is an existing public amenity that is lightly used, staff said, and the potential annual operating cost of a sanitary hookup would be hard to justify given current usage. The decision would affect operations budgets and the park's use of electricity, water, and staff time.
Board members and staff discussed transitional options, including public outreach and a potential conversion to a multi-use surface with seasonal use. Will, another parks staff member, identified convertible surface systems that could allow summer water play or winter skating; staff noted conversion systems are available but will require further cost analysis.
Shannon told the board she had contacted the mayor and the sanitary district to clarify capacity and test arrangements. Staff said they will continue to operate the facility while seeking options and intend to bring recommendations to the board in coming months.
Ending: Staff emphasized they do not want the feature sitting unused this summer while a long-term decision is made; the board asked for additional cost comparisons and public-notice plans for any major change.
