Staff at the Fort Dodge Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department said the first online registration day for the Fort Dodge Parks and Recreation summer programs was a success.
Rachel Maehl, a programs supervisor for the Parks and Recreation Department said during a meeting of the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Commission Wednesday afternoon that about $11,157 in online registrations were taken during an April 17 registration day, in addition to about $4,400 in registrations from the community registration site at Fort Dodge Senior High.
This was the first year for the online registration program.
"We're up about $400 in registrations from last year," Maehl said.
Lori Branderhorst, director of the department, said the online registration was created to help eliminate the crowding and long lines that occurred in previous years at the FDSH registration site when it was the only enrollment option.
"The online system is really paying itself back," she said.
Branderhorst also discussed the progress of the aquatic center, which is slated for a July 1 opening.
She said concrete is being poured in the lazy river portions of the pool, with construction of the deck and playground expected to begin next week.
"If the weather stays favorable, we can get it done by July 1," said Branderhorst.
The first session of swimming lessons will begin May 17 at the Fort Dodge Senior High pool, with open swimming to be held at FDSH beginning June 14 until the opening day of the aquatic center.
Commission member Mark Campbell updated on the kaizen held for the Lakeside Municipal Golf Course. He said several ideas are being considered to help generate more revenue, as well as customers to the course and the club house located at John F. Kennedy Memorial Park.
Campbell said they are considering a liquor license for the clubhouse, looking at menu expansion, the possibility of hiring a cook/waiter, having meals or menus available for events held at Lakeside, and welcoming campers in the park to use the clubhouse.
"We want to make sure everyone is getting the service they expect and an experience they will enjoy," he said.
Contact Emilie Nelson at (515) 573-2141 or enelson@messengernews.net