Three vendors will compete to run concessions at Clinch Park and Hickory Hills Ski Area, while another three will compete to run equipment rentals at Clinch Park, according to bid results posted by the city this week. The city put the contracts up for bid after an agreement with Mike Sutherland - who has managed all three services for the past six years for the city as The River - expired this month. Submitted bids were as follows:

Concessions (Minimum required bid of $20,000 annually for Clinch Park and $2,000 annually for Hickory Hills, 3-year contract)
> Jeffrey Bensley/TC Watersports: Clinch Park - $21,500 year one, $21,750 year two, $22,000 year three; Hickory Hills - $2,500 year one, $2,750 year two, $2,750 year three
> Edany BLT: Clinch Park - $22,500 year one, $22,500 year two, $22,500 year three; Hickory Hills - $2,000 year one, $2,000 year two, $2,000 year three
> The River: Clinch Park - $25,000 year one, $25,000 year two, $25,000 year three; Hickory Hills - $5,000 year one, $5,000 year two, $5,000 year three

Equipment Rentals (Minimum required bid of $20,000 annually for Clinch Park, 3-year contract)
> Jeffrey Bensley/TC Watersports: $30,500 year one, $30,750 year two, $31,000 year three
> Sunset Watersports: $23,500 year one, $25,500 year two, $25,500 year three
> The River: $40,000 year one, $50,000 year two, $60,000 year three

According to Parks and Recreation Superintendent Lauren Vaughn, the city's next step will be to invite vendors for interviews, then present a recommendation to the city commission in late October or early November. Vaughn says the city won't automatically hire the highest bidder but will consider other factors in the interview process, including previous experience, equipment access and letters of reference.