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Review and potential approval of a Usage Agreement for the operation of Heat Haven Sauna Park at Hart Park
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Submitted by:
Alex Krutsch - Parks and Forestry Superintendent
Department:
Public Works
A. Issue
Approval of a usage agreement for Heat Haven Sauna Park at Hart Park
B. Background/Options
Heat Haven Sauna Park, in cooperation with Discover Wauwatosa, is proposing to establish a winter wellness destination at Hart Park to include wood-fired barrel saunas, cold plunges, fire pits and movement classes. Heat Haven is proposing that the experience operate from Mid-November through April. Heat Haven’s full proposal is included in the agenda packet for the board’s convenience.
Hart Park was selected as the preferred location due to its central location within Wauwatosa and the greater metro-Milwaukee area. The park also offers ample room, a tranquil setting, convenient parking, nearby restrooms, and indoor spaces to host movement classes such as yoga.
As shown in the proposal, the sauna experience would be located in a lawn area immediately south of the Muellner Building. This location allows easy access to restrooms and the Muellner Building where it is proposed that movement classes be held in the Garden Room. In addition, a temporary concessions booth would be operated in the area by Pour Inc. Staff worked with Heat Haven and Pour Inc on the site selection and is in support. Staff has also had conversations with Senior Center leadership and Curling Club leadership to help minimize potential impacts to our existing users.
C. Strategic Plan (Area of Focus)
Priority Area 5: Quality of Life
D. Fiscal Impact
The Heat Haven proposal offers a new source of revenue for the park system. This includes a use fee of $1,050/month for the outdoor space and a rental rate of $50/hour for the Garden Room to host movement classes.
Parks will also receive 15% of concessions sales as specified in the City’s prior agreement with Pour Inc.
Since this is a first-year program revenue generation is difficult to forecast, but it is expected that the park system could generate $1,500 -$2,500 per month.
E. Recommendation
The Heat Haven experience is in line with the park’s values of providing outdoor recreation opportunities that promote community health and wellbeing along with promoting year-round physical fitness and recreational opportunities. For these reasons, along with the opportunity for increased revenue generation, staff recommends approval of the Heat Haven use proposal for 2025.