Aldermen Object to $3.5K Washer/Dryer, $6K Fryer for Splash Station

An item on Wednesday's board of aldermen meeting didn't wash well with some of the aldermen.

Among the items requested for approval for Splash Station were an industrial washer and dryer at a cost of $3,593.

Alderman Sonya Shryock said she was still using a refurbished dryer she bought years ago that cost her only $175. Alderman Cheryl Kross agreed with Shryock, who asked about the need for a clothes washer and dryer at the aquatic center.

Dessieux responded that staff at Progress Park had to collect forgotten items like swimsuits and towels on a daily basis and that they washed them to prevent mold. 

Alderman Mike Hays defended the purchase, saying that the items were an investment and would be in use for years to come.

Another item that Shryock objected to was a "greaseless fryer" for $6,118.

Parks Director Mary Jo Dessieux explained that the greaseless fryer was a piece of equipment for the concession stand that would bake food items instead of frying them.

Shryock commented that some of the equipment was going to be "nicer than some of the restaurants in town."

Shryock asked why the concession stand needed a heated condiment dispenser for nacho cheese at a price of $316.

"Why can't they just use crock pots?" she asked.

Dessieux explained that it was hard to maintain compliance with health department temperature regulations with crockpots. 

The current list of items totaled $65,075 and included lifeguard and safety equipment, lane markers, chairs and tables and concession stand equipment.

Alderman Chris Gard said that it was difficult to make a decision on the list, which contained so many diverse items. 

"I hate to be the Grinch," Gard said. "But I'm not into us doing everyone's laundry."

He suggested that staff come back to the board with a list of concession menu items so that the board could understand better the need for certain equipment.

"It's difficult to choose when I don't know what we're serving," he said.

Procurement Director suggested that the board pull items that they questioned for separate approvals.

The board tabled the item for further discussion, but City Administrator Mike McDowell told the board that a decision would be necessary within the next two weeks to allow for lead time to order and delivery.

"It’s taxpayer money," Shryock said. "I get tired of us treating it like we have to have the Cadillac standard."