The Marietta Family Aquatic Center vacant prior to the start of the 2024 season. (File photo)

In previous meetings, Marietta City Council has analyzed the financial performance of the Marietta Aquatic Center, reviewing expenses such as water, utilities, and general operating costs.

One of the key concerns has been the center’s financial sustainability, prompting discussions on potential privatization or alternative revenue streams. Council members have explored the possibility of leasing the concession stand to private vendors or allowing food trucks on-site, which has previously received positive community feedback.

The need for a new management strategy arises from the recent retirement of the owner of Professional Pool Management, the company that had overseen the center’s operations for several years. Without those services, the city is now evaluating new management proposals.

During a recent meeting of the Marietta Lands, Buildings, and Parks Committee, officials discussed a proposal from Stephanie Green, who had previously worked as a pool manager under Fishman Pools.

Green expressed interest in managing the facility as a city employee rather than as a contracted worker. Under her proposed structure, she would be responsible for hiring and training lifeguards, transitioning all staff from 1099 contract workers to city employees.

Financial analysis of Green’s proposal indicates an initial projected loss of $15,000, which factors in labor costs, employee benefits, and city contributions to the Public Employees Retirement System (PERS). Green has requested an annual salary of $35,000 for the three-month operational period, which would equate to an hourly rate of approximately $42.50. Comparatively, under the previous contract with Fishman Pools, Green was paid $20 per hour as a pool manager.

Some council members raised concerns about the cost implications of hiring Green as a city employee rather than as an independent contractor. If Green were to work under a 1099 contract, the financial impact on the city would be significantly reduced, potentially bringing the loss down to just a few thousand dollars. According to the council, Green, when asked, stated that she was not willing to work as an independent contractor and preferred employment under the city’s payroll system.

Additional discussions have focused on revenue opportunities, including the possible reopening of the concession stand. In 2024, food trucks operated near the aquatic center, providing refreshments to visitors, and were well received by the community.

Representatives from Munchies Donut Hole, a local food truck business, attended the recent meeting to discuss the possibility of renting and operating the aquatic center’s concession stand as a private business. Council members expressed interest in this idea, noting that it could generate additional revenue while removing the burden of concession management from the city.

Looking ahead, council members are considering various operational adjustments to improve the center’s financial outlook. These include increasing admission fees, transitioning to a cashless payment system, and implementing stricter cost controls on labor and supplies. Green has also suggested eliminating the assistant manager position, which could result in further savings if qualified lifeguards could take on additional responsibilities.

Ultimately, council’s decision will determine the future of the Marietta Aquatic Center’s operations. Upcoming special meetings will be crucial in reviewing bids, discussing financial strategies, and deciding on a management plan that ensures the sustainability of the aquatic center while balancing community needs and city budget constraints. Marietta City Council will have a special meeting of the Finance, Utilities and City Council starting at 5:30 p.m. today at the Armory.