By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
The kayak rentals were checked out and on the water this past weekend in Great Bend. Through a partnership with the Great Bend Recreation Commission and the City of Great Bend, four kayaks are available to rent at Veterans Lake and Stone Lake. Using an online app, users can check out the kayak, paddle and lifejacket for an hour rental.
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said there were a few hiccups the first weekend, but advises users to carefully follow the directions.
"If you use the app, you need to follow the directions," said Hayes. "What was happening last weekend was user error. They did not follow directions to close up the kayaks correctly, and they were charged more than what they were used for."
Once your rental time is over, citizens will return the equipment to the locker and select “End Rental” in the app.
"Of course the negative comments were kind of loud, but I want everyone to know the Rec and the City are interested in making that right," added Hayes. "We want to make sure it works for everyone."
A five-year contract with Rent.fun for all the kayaks, gear and app use cost $26,000. The Great Bend CVB received a $12,000 state grant to assist with the project cost.