Merry Christmas: In historic vote, Sandusky greenlights city rec center

Commissioners vote 7-zip for $10.4 million construction project at Hayes Avenue site

SANDUSKY — After more than 30 years of public requests, dashed hopes, and contentious debate, the vision for a centrally located, city-owned recreation center became reality Monday night. The City Commission voted unanimously to authorize a design-build contract with Janotta & Herner of Monroeville to build a new facility.

The vote was a major legacy moment for commissioners Dennis Murray Jr. and Dick Brady, who will be stepping down at the end of the year, and a testament to the steady commitment of long-serving commissioner Dave Waddington.

Long slog

The conversation surrounding a city rec center has spanned decades, often stalling over concerns about long-term operational costs. Commissioners Brady and Murray, key architects of the city’s recent resurgence, were adamant that this project be done right.