By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The Great Bend Recreation Commission received mostly positive feedback from an online survey gauging the public’s interest in a kayak and paddleboard rental service. Of those that filled out the survey, 81% responded they would likely try kayaking if it was available in town. The response to if you would try paddleboarding in the future was at 73%.
Great Bend Rec Director Chris Umphres said Rent.Fun would charge $18,000 to install lockers near a local lake that would provide four kayaks or paddleboards for the public to rent.
"I think the public got shocked the first time it went out that it's $18,000 because they thought that was per year," said Umphres. "That's the cost for the full five years. I believe it's $26,000 for the 8-unit locker. A grant through the city can offset that."
The City of Great Bend is onboard with the idea and secured a $12,200 grant from the State of Kansas that will offset the expense for the Rec to purchase the 8-unit locker.
Rent.Fun offered a market rate fee structure of charging $25 for a two-hour rental or $75 for an annual pass. The rental fees would be split amongst Rent.Fun and the Rec Commission.
"I don't look at it as a big recoup of money," said Umphres. "I think this is more of a city service that we get people involved. We're looking for other ways to bring recreation to the public."
The online survey showed the public was in favor of having the kayaks located at Veterans Lake. Umphres will bring a more detailed proposal for the Rec Board’s approval at next month’s meeting.