Politics & Government
New Baltimore Expects Changes, Savings in Parks and Rec Department
The proposed change in the New Baltimore Parks and Recreation Department staffing would eliminate the assistant director position currently held by Carlos Aprea.
With the expected retirement of the New Baltimore Parks and Recreation director, city officials are proposing staffing changes that aim to save thousands.
New Baltimore officials have drafted staffing proposals that would accommodate the anticipated departure of Parks and Recreation Director Michael Hoffard by the end of this year.
The proposed plan would eliminate the recreation department’s assistant director position, which is currently held by Carlos Aprea, reducing costs by about $16,000 each year.
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At this time, Hoffard earns about $52,000 annually with benefits. Aprea makes about $30,000 annually with benefits. And a part-time receptionist earns $8 an hour without benefits.
Aprea said Tuesday the proposed plan for department staffing would include one director earning $48,000 per year with benefits, one part-time receptionist earning $8 hourly without benefits and one receptionist/assistant earning $18,000 yearly.
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“The director would be making $48,000 a year, which is less than what the director is making right now,” he said. “So, you can see the savings; you’re eliminating one position. They were looking at how to save on everything, not just on equipment and supplies, but how to save with staffing.”
He said the director position would be challenging without an assistant director, but that he is up for the challenge if selected.
New Baltimore Mayor Larry Smith said Tuesday Hoffard's official retirement would mean the city would publicly announce the opening and hold interviews with potential candidates.
“We want someone aggressive enough to keep the programs going,” Smith said.
The matter has not been set for discussion at this time.
Aquatic Center Deal May Stay Afloat
The staffing changes come at a time when the city explores how utilizing the could help enhance its programs. At a city council meeting last month, a majority of the council deal after crunching the numbers of a one-year lease.
Smith, a proponent of leasing the center from the district, said that school officials told him recently that are willing to lease the aquatic center to the city for $1 per year. However, a final decision on the matter has not been made and it will have to be discussed in the future.
“It would be a great asset to us,” he said.
