The Sandusky City Commission voted Nov. 24 to approve a design‑build contract with Janata and Herner for a new Sandusky Recreation Center, adopting an ordinance that the city manager will execute under section 14 of the city charter.

Commissioners framed the project as a long‑sought community priority funded by a recent levy intended to support ongoing operations. One commissioner thanked residents for passing the levy and said the commission insisted on securing a dedicated source of funding for operations before supporting the rec center. "We had to have a dedicated source of funding for operations," a commissioner said, adding that programming and long‑term operational funding were central to the vote.

Commissioners described the facility as modest and centrally located, adjacent to existing tennis courts and schools, and emphasized that programming determines long‑term value: "The bricks and the mortar are great," one commissioner said, "but it is the programming ... that is where the action is." Several commissioners expressed enthusiasm about potential expansions and partnerships with the school district for aquatics programming, while noting the initial project will not include a pool.

A motion to adopt the design‑build ordinance was moved and seconded and passed by roll call. Commissioners said contractors provided bids that fit the project budget; the ordinance takes effect immediately under the city charter.

Next steps: staff will proceed with the contract execution and coordinate programming and operations planning with recreation staff and future commissions. The commission emphasized the need to monitor future operating budgets and staffing to ensure long‑term viability.