City Parks and Recreation officials said Tuesday a new contract will be worked out for the pro at the city's elite tennis facility, the Champions Club.
A recent city audit was critical of the longtime arrangement for Orlando Lourenco, saying that above his city salary he was receiving funds from giving tennis lessons, from concessions and from setting up tournaments.
Larry Zehnder, city parks director, said that arrangement was set up by a prior administration when the club opened in Hixson in 2000.
He said other tennis pros at municipal facilities around the country have similar setups.
He said, "We have one of the finest tennis facilities in the Southeast and we have one of the finest tennis pros in the Southeast."
Greta Hayes, parks director, said it is planned to hire two additional employees at the Champions Club - a facilities manager and an administrative assistant who will handle clerical duties.
She said that would free up Mr. Lourenco to concentrate on organizing leagues, bringing in tournaments and running camps.
Ms. Hayes indicated that Mr. Lourenco may get a portion of that charged for tennis lessons, but she said it would all be run through the city cash register.
Mr. Zehnder said the new arrangement would not go into effect until approved by the City Council.
Councilwoman Deborah Scott said she opposes city employees earning extra income at city facilities. She said, "I can see all kinds of ethical conflicts here."
She said she questions the legality of such an arrangement.
Mr. Zehnder said, "I feel the new contract will be beneficial to him (Mr. Lourenco) and beneficial to the city."