Photo Credit: Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation
Operating a multimillion-dollar facility might seem like an overwhelming task, and the truth is, it can be. But Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation (CCPR) in Carmel, Ind., is here to help make that exorbitant task a little easier. Whether you are knee-deep in new construction or assuming management of an aging facility, there’s one prominent principle that should be followed—being proactive is always better than being reactive. Staying ahead of and identifying problems before they become bigger issues is key to long-term success. This article offers an operator’s view on utilization of technology and preventative-maintenance techniques at the Monon Community Center (MCC), a facility managed by CCPR.
The MCC is a 146,224-square-foot facility nestled in the heart of CCPR’s 161-acre Central Park. The facility opened to the public on May 26, 2007, and consists of three integrated components: an 114,971-square-foot west wing, a 31,254-square-foot east wing, and a 10-acre outdoor waterpark. The west wing houses an indoor aquatic center, three-court gymnasium, fitness center, indoor track, group fitness/dance studios, and an onsite childcare service. The east wing has multipurpose rooms for programming, fitness, and meetings. The waterpark has a bather capacity of 2,100, making it one of the largest public-pool facilities in Central Indiana.
Developing An Operations Plan
This type of planning outlines the day-to-day tasks required to operate the facility. If it’s put together properly, management and staff members will be able to refer to it frequently to see how everyday work will be carried out. An operations plan addresses areas of responsibility, the tasks to be completed, frequency, and financial resources needed.