September 21, 2023 |
Photo – Saratoga Hot Springs Swimming Pool – Bigfoot99 file photo
Family members of Saratoga employees are permitted officially now to use the town’s recreation center for free.
During Tuesday’s Saratoga town council meeting, Recreation Director Kim Hemenway said family members of town employees have asked her if they could use the recreation center without a paid membership. Since no policy exists, Hemenway asked the council to formally allow immediate family members to access the town’s gymnasium and weight room for free.
Hemenway said if the council does approve her request, it will need to be added to the town employee handbook.
Mayor Chuck Davis said while no official rule existed, the previous recreation director, Sarah Laughlin, allowed immediately family members to use the gym for free.
Hemenway said family members can access the recreation center but will still be required to pay for classes and activities taught by outside instructors.
Councilwoman Kathy Beck said she wants the new rules to clearly state what employee family members will have access to. Hemenway said she will allow family members to use the entire facility.
Councilman Jerry Fluty said free gym membership is a great benefit for town employees in lieu of a salary increase.
Councilwoman Beck asked Hemenway if families of town employees also will receive free pool access. Hemenway said she will need to discuss the idea with the the town’s recreation commission. Councilwoman Beck said free pool use is another great incentive for town employees.
Mayor Davis said the council has the power to make a simple rule change. Councilman Jerry Fluty motioned to alter the employee handbook to allow immediate family members of town employees to use the gym for free. Mayor Davis said future councils will be able to easily rescind the new mandate if they want.
The pool was brought up again later in the meeting. Councilwoman Beck said the recreation commission would like to honor pool passes purchased during the summer. The opening of the town’s outdoor pool was delayed because of high water in the North Platte River. The baby pool was also closed for much of the summer because of maintenance issues. Councilwoman Beck said to speak to Hemenway if you were unable to take full advantage of your pool pass.
Councilwoman Beck said to call Recreation Director Kim Hemenway at 326-8338. The council will decide after more discussion exactly how the town will honor the unused pool passes.
