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otherwise to take effect and be in force after the earliest period allowed by law, authorizing and directing the Mayor to enter into an amendment to the concession lease agreement with HELP Foundation, Inc. for the operation of food concessions at Lakewood Park, pursuant to Section 155.08 of the Codified Ordinances. (Referred to PWS 03/06/23) Ms. Quilty described the HELP Foundation organization, its history, mission, and current programs. HELP Foundation has operated the concession stand at Lakewood Park for many years and is also operating the new Bistro at Cove Community Center. She described how these initiatives grow job skills and employment opportunities for those with disabilities. Councilmember Rader clarified that the resolution authorizes a one-year extension of the HELP Foundation’s agreement to operate the concession stand at Lakewood Park. No other substantial changes to the agreement were identified. Councilmember Bullock expressed interest in expanding food service to serve on the lawn during Friday Night Flicks and/or band concerts and questioned if HELP can handle the projected increased capacity at the pool this season. Ms. Quality replied that the hours of the concession stand are Monday – Friday 1:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. She expressed willingness to expand hours to accommodate special events. She described HELP’s ability to meet increased needs and be flexible following the downturn in 2020 (due to COVID and limited pool hours) and to meet needs at Cove Community Center. She expressed willingness to expand service to the lawn if HELP could get a food cart and a place to store it. Councilmember Bullock expressed willingness to potentially use ARPA funds to assist HELP with expanding its services to the lawn. The committee and Ms. Quilty discussed the wages offered to HELP employees. Ms. Quilty acknowledged that the entry-level positions are lower than HELP would like due to the state’s Medicaid reimbursement models. She mentioned that there are advocacy efforts underway at the state level to increase reimbursements which would allow for higher pay. She stated that site leader and supervisor positions are paid $14-$18 per hour. In response to a question, Ms. Quilty described HELP’s flexible scheduling models which she believes will allow the organization to respond to increases in demand at the concession stand, if needed. The committee and Ms. Quilty discussed the existing capital and structure of the concession stand. Committee members advocated for potential future investments into the concessions stand to enhance operations. 3