Rick Vink and Kevin Sullivan want to open a computer-enhanced recreation center in Iola by Jan. 1. Allen County commissioners said Tuesday they were eager to accommodate the development. VINK GAVE a brief overview of the rec center’s potential offerings.
“Let’s get it done,” said Commission Chairman Dick Works, after commissioners acknowledged they couldn’t move forward until an old warehouse just north of the county’s Critical Response Center is appraised.
That’s a concern, Vink said, noting they need a handle on what their financial commitments will be before they can arrange financing.
The building has been vacant for months, except for storage of county and Iola vehicles. The roof needs extensive repairs and its heating likely needs attention or replacement.
What is likely to unfold is a two-year lease-to-purchase agreement that may have Vink and Sullivan making repairs to the building, with what they spend taken into consideration when purchase is negotiated.
Vink mentioned $300 a month as rent. Commissioners made no estimate and asked County Counselor Alan Weber to consult real estate agents to determine appraisal and suggested rent.
“I want to make this work,” said Commissioner Gary McIntosh, as discussion of the building and its potential continued.
“I think we’ll be busy” once the center opens, Vink said,. “And we want to be in Iola and not Chanute,” where another building may be available.
Hours open will depend on how much equipment is installed, in part to be determined by financial arrangements the two men can make.
“If we have a golf simulator, we’d probably be open during the day,” Vink said. “Otherwise, we’re looking at 3 to 9 p.m. (weekdays) and all day on Saturdays and Sundays.”
Baseball and softball simulators will have pitching machines that will be able to deliver a variety of pitches at different speeds, from those suited for young players through those involved in high school and beyond.
“We’ll be able to program the machine for a series of pitches, one a fastball, the next a curve and then another fastball,” Vink said. Also, pitches can be delivered high and tight, over the outside part of the plate or down the middle.
Coaches will be able to use video to analyze what their players need to work on, or even film a batter during a game and then replicate the experience during practice sessions at the center.
Vink said earlier more than 40 traveling teams operate from this area and that he thinks the high-tech capabilities of the center will give local players an edge when they go against teams from larger communities.
Special training sessions, including those for individuals, will be taught by Steve Murry, baseball coach at Neosho County Community College, and his son, Zach, who played professionally in the Colorado Rockies system.
Rec center nearer reality
