In October, Kelly Glass retired from the Carroll Rec Center, and since that time, Superintendent, McKenzie Kiger and Parks and Rec Director, Jack Wardell, said they have not had the staffing needed to adequately cover those duties.
The position, which predates Wardell’s tenure, has had greatly increased responsibilities. Since that role was created, they have added an aquatic center, more programming and more oversight of youth programs. He said right now, Kiger is picking up a lot of the responsibilities over and above her regular role.
Kiger estimates she spends 15 to 20 hours per week on lifeguarding/aquatic duties. Wardell suggested the creation of a full-time aquatic and fitness specialist position to fill the gap.
He said the outlined responsibilities cover a lot of what was being done by Glass with comp time and overtime pay for extras. Wardell added that this person will need to have a flexible schedule because recreation activities usually occur on nights and weekends when others have free time. This person would also work to acquire lifeguards, positions Wardell said they struggle to get filled. Wardell asked the Carroll City Council to approve the creation of this position at salary range of $16.75 to $22.33 per hour. The council approved that request.
