The 2020 pool season at the Gardner Aquatic Center is cancelled. The decision was based on the current CDC and Reopen Kansas Plan guidelines;it would be very difficult to follow social-distancing and safety recommendations while operating the GAC; and there was insufficient time to rehire and effectively train seasonal staff to help patrons try and follow state guidelines. About 140-150 seasonal employees are used each year, according to Jason Bruce, parks and recreation director. The proposed 2020 pool budget was $451,105. There were also a financial consideration due to the economic impact the pandemic has had on the city’s revenues. “Pools lose money every year,” Bruce said.
(Read more: Gardner News)