Parowan awards pool concession to local restaurateur for one‑year trial

Parowan — After an extended discussion about staffing, food safety and affordability, the Parowan City Council voted April 16 to award the pool concession RFP to a local vendor, Nick Smokehouse & Café, on a one‑year trial basis, subject to a completed written agreement.

City staff described two proposals: a full bid from Nick Smokehouse & Café and an incomplete submission from a second proponent. Council members raised concerns about menu prices, food‑handler logistics and the concession stand’s small prep area (no cooking hood). Councilman John and others emphasized the need to keep some low‑cost options for families while ensuring the concessionaire can realistically cover labor and startup costs.

Nick, speaking at the meeting, said food would be prepped at his restaurant and delivered to the pool concession as a "satellite" operation, with warmers on site rather than onsite cooking. He also told the council he would work with local clubs to staff shifts and planned to donate a share of proceeds to participating local organizations.

The council’s motion approved awarding the RFP to Nick Smokehouse & Café for one year; the motion included three negotiating points: (1) council will negotiate prices and reserve the right to set low‑cost options, (2) concession employees will not receive free pool admission, and (3) while outside food generally will not be allowed during concession hours, private pool rentals may bring their own food by agreement. The motion passed 3–2, and staff will return with a formal contract for execution.

The concessionaire must meet local public‑health permitting requirements and coordinate power and service connections for driver‑feedback signs and the concession’s utilities if needed; the city noted food‑handling certification and glove/handwashing protocols will be required under health code.