Council tables TAG/TIG center restructuring after extended discussion on staffing and pool safety

An extended council discussion on Nov. 12 focused on restructuring staff and operations at the TAG/TIG center and on meeting state requirements for pool operation.

Staff and council members explored options including combining departments, hiring a part‑time recreation director (up to 29 hours/week to secure WRS eligibility without full benefits), shifting administration to City Hall, and partnering with the local high school for recreation duties. Staff raised concerns about lifeguard staffing shortages, state regulatory thresholds tied to pool square footage that increase lifeguard requirements, and the difficulty of meeting new state rules without additional personnel.

A public commenter raised safety concerns about the TAG/Tech center (blocking aisles, fans creating trip/egress hazards). Park and recreation staff and council members discussed training, certification requirements, and potential appeals to state regulators. Council agreed to table the issue for two weeks and requested staff produce proposals, cost estimates and potential job descriptions for consideration before taking formal action.