Brook Park tech committee proposes $25,000 audio and paging upgrade for recreation center

James Presley, a member of Brook Park’s technology and innovation committee, told the council caucus the recreation-center audio and paging system is “antiquated” and inconsistent, and presented a vendor-backed plan to replace the core equipment behind the front desk and add an eight-zone system that would cover gyms, locker rooms and other public areas.

“Right now, it works sometimes when they page and sometimes it doesn't,” Presley said, arguing the new system would include AM/FM, CD, Bluetooth, USB and SD inputs, an improved paging microphone and a maintenance agreement with 24-hour phone support and three on-site service calls. Presley told council staff training for rec-center employees would be included in the vendor scope.

Council members asked how zones would operate and whether the pool amplifier would be incorporated. Presley said the plan separates area paging so staff can page a single gym rather than the entire building and that the pool currently uses a separate amplifier; the committee expects some speakers and wiring can be reused and that final scope will be adjusted after testing.

Council members praised the committee’s work. “You guys have been nothing but fantastic,” Councilman Mancini said, thanking the volunteers for tracing wiring and assembling quotes.

In caucus the group moved to endorse the committee’s recommendation and forward it to the council agenda for formal consideration. The endorsement was recorded and the recommendation will appear on an upcoming council docket for final authorization and any contracting action.

Next steps the committee outlined include confirming wiring and speaker tests, collecting competitive quotes and scheduling vendor training for rec-center staff; Presley said funds were already appropriated in the 2026 budget to cover the estimated cost.