Aquatic Center cuts manager position
By:
Chuck Kajer
New Prague Aquatic Center manager Bryce Bachman was let go from his duties on Friday, April 6.
The decision was made by the Joint Powers Board, which oversees the Aquatic Center’s operations.
"The District monitors the Aquatics Center budget closely and makes adjustments as needed," said New Prague Area Schools Superintendent Tim Dittberner. "During a recent review, the decision was made to restructure the management of the pool. A decision will be made shortly regarding how to move forward.
"The District monitors the Aquatics Center budget closely and makes adjustments as needed," said New Prague Area Schools Superintendent Tim Dittberner. "During a recent review, the decision was made to restructure the management of the pool. A decision will be made shortly regarding how to move forward.
Community Services Director Janelle Kirsch said Bachman had been doing a good job, but "We needed to go in a different direction.”
Bachman began his duties in January, 2017, and oversaw the operations in the run-up to the opening of the indoor aquatic facility in July. That included hiring and scheduling of staff, scheduling of activities and other operations at the facility.
Heather Otto, aquatic center assistant and a coach with the Neptune Swim Club, based out of the Aquatic Center, is acting manager.
Kirsch said the joint powers board - made up of representatives from the school district and the City of New Prague, is in the process of reevaluating the position and coming up with a new job description and direction.
Kirsch said the proposed changes will be discussed by the joint powers board in the next few weeks and we will be presenting proposals to both the school board and city council.
She said it is likely they will decide to hire a pool supervisor instead of a pool manager. She said it is mostly a money-saving move, as the new position will be paid less than the pool manager’s position was. “We are close to what was expected for 2017-18 budget wise, but we do need to make some adjustments. We’ve already cut back on some front desk hours and we’re looking to be conscious at how we’re spending and how we’re running the center.”
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