By K. Michelle Moran
C & G Staff Writer

GROSSE POINTE CITY — Officials are hoping technology will enable them to improve service while having fewer employees in the Parks and Recreation Department.

The City is purchasing Recreation Pro software from RC Systems — the low bidder at $17,550 — and a server from Tech Resources for $3,427.90 — also the low bidder for its service. The software will allow the city to manage and record class scheduling, facility rental and the like, Parks and Recreation Director Christopher Hardenbrook said.

Recreation Pro software is already used by many other municipalities, including Grosse Pointe Woods and Grosse Pointe Farms, Hardenbrook said. The program is user-friendly and can easily be learned by seasonal staff. Since the City is trimming costs by not replacing its departed recreation coordinator, he said, seasonal staffers will have more to do, and this software will help them do that work. Funds for the nearly $21,000 purchase can be taken from the roughly $25,000 that would have gone toward the recreation coordinator.

“It’s a big number, but it is coming from a position that’s not (being) filled,” Hardenbrook told the City Council at their Feb. 22 meeting.

The program is also expected to benefit residents, who will be able to check class availability and register for classes online instead of waiting in line at the Parks and Recreation office, Hardenbrook said. Residents will also be able to use it to register for group permits and other activities at the park.

City Manager Peter Dame said the software should actually help improve service. It’s expected to reduce the number of calls park employees have to field, as well, he said.

Although there’s an annual software maintenance fee of $4,250, Dame said the technology will save the City in the long run by eliminating a staffer and corresponding benefits.

Hardenbrook said the City’s current database can be merged into this one, and of the three bidders, RC Systems was the only one that would enable the community to retain its existing park passes.

The City Council unanimously approved the purchase Feb. 22.

City Council member Christopher Walsh asked Hardenbrook to evaluate the program as it operates.

You can reach Staff Writer K. Michelle Moran at kmoran@candgnews.com or at (586) 498-1047.