Walker County Commissioners have approved an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Rossville for the ongoing operation of the city’s recreation department, based in the county owned Rossville Recreation Center on Williams Street.
The deal awaits approval from Rossville’s City Council in their upcoming meeting August 13th, despite concerns from some county commissioners as well as residents about the details of the agreement.
Operation of the city’s recreation services became a hot topic early this summer, when insurance and financial oversight questions arose of the local non-profit organization managing the center at the time.
Under the proposed agreement, Rossville would be responsible for maintenance of the facility, operation of the concession stand and payroll for umpires and related personnel costs, Any funds generated by concession sales are earmarked solely for recreation department use.
Walker County would be responsible for major maintenance and utility costs of the center, much of which consists of the old Rossville High School Campus.
In addition, both the city of Rossville and Walker County would each insure the recreation center for one million dollars.
The deal does come with contingencies requested by commissioners, including a ‘hold harmless’ clause for county liability, as well as a 60 day accounting review of the center’s concession sales.
The agreement would have a two year term, renewable by mutual agreement, but could be ended by either party with 60 day written notice.
The board approved the agreement by a 3-0 vote with District 1 Commissioner Robert Blakemore abstaining.
District 3 Commissioner Brian Hart admits the agreement isn’t perfect but suggests it will serve as a template for future improvement.
District 2 Commissioner Mark Askew voiced his concerns as well on facility financial oversight and access. Critics of the deal say Rossville regularly leaves keys to the center with those renting the facility with little to no supervision.
Commissioner Vice Chair Mark Stultz also requested copies of current rental receipts, from a recent wrestling event as well as an ongoing Sunday youth basketball league.
In other board business, commissioners approved and denied property variance requests as determined by the planning commission.
Commissioners also approved a 78 thousand dollar outlay for putting a new metal roof on a remaining pod of the Walker County Jail.
More housekeeping is coming to the Ag Center in Rock Spring, where commissioners approved the purchase of two 10 ton dual compressor units for $49.442 from SPLOST approved funds.
They also approved a $60,000 bid to paint the Ag Center.
Commission Chairman Shannon Whitfield says the 24 year old building needs to get ready in the next few weeks for a busy schedule of September events.
Commissioner Whitfield also called upon kids of all ages to take part in Wednesday’s 11am ribbon cutting event for the new inclusive playground at Walker Rocks Park.
By Vince Lennon
