Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Lawrence Parks and Recreation Department

TO:	David Corliss Cynthia Wagner Diane Stoddard Jonathan Douglas Bobbie Walthall
FROM:	Tim Laurent
CC:	Ernie Shaw Mark Hecker Alan Landis
Date:	February 13, 2013
RE:	February 19, 2013 Agenda Item

Please include the following item on the City Commission consent agenda for consideration at the February 19, 2013 meeting:

I. Clinton Lake Softball Complex Batting Cage Operations.  This is a request for proposals to contract the daily operations of the Batting Cages located at Clinton Lake Adult Softball Complex (CLSC), 5100 Speicher Rd. 

II. Project Description/History.  The batting cages were constructed in 1997 as part of the Clinton Lake Adult Softball Complex.  The cages consist of 10 individual hitting stations. Historically the concession operator or the complex supervisors have tried to provide service when needed at the batting cages. This approach does not always meet the needs of our citizens. 

III. Project Details. By contracting the batting cage operations we hope to increase the level of service to include the following:

o Expanded hours of operation during the spring and fall months.

o Staff consistently present during peak operation times. Currently our staff divides their time supervising the softball complex as well as the batting cages.

o Technical/mechanical expertise.  Vendor will have the ability to fix routine maintenance issues on the spot as well as the technical knowledge to keep the machines operating correctly.  Less down time should result in an increase in gross revenue and most importantly improved customer service.

o New programs and special events. With a motivated vendor the cages could host hitting clinics, team outings, birthday party packages, etc.

IV. Project Funding.  Additional funding not required. The goal is to contract an individual or business who will pay the City a pre determined annual amount to take on the daily operations of the batting cages.  City would continue to upkeep facility and major equipment needs that are deemed necessary for the functional operations of facility.

V. Action Request.  Lawrence Parks and Recreation staff requests approval from the City Commission to proceed with the request for proposals to contract batting cage operations.