Boulder budget presentation outlines 2024 fiscal challenges and growth strategies

Boulder City’s Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting on April 5, 2025, highlighted significant financial developments and future planning for the department. The meeting began with a recap of the 2024 financial year, revealing a transition to new financial systems that may cause some discrepancies in reporting. The department's budget development for 2025 will commence with a retreat and continue through the summer months.

A key takeaway from the financial presentation was the department's operating budget, which saw a remarkable 96% expenditure rate, surpassing the best practice benchmark of 95%. This indicates improved budgeting accuracy and a commitment to utilizing funds effectively. However, the Capital Improvement Projects (CIP) budget only saw 34% of its allocated funds spent, primarily due to staffing challenges and the complexities of public engagement and permitting processes.

The discussion also touched on staffing levels, noting an increase from 121 full-time equivalents (FTEs) in 2021 to approximately 152 in 2024, reflecting a recovery from previous reductions. The department aims to align its staffing with the growing population of Boulder, which has seen substantial increases in recent years.

The Recreation Activity Fund (RAF), which relies on user fees, showed a significant increase in revenue, driven by higher visitation rates at recreation centers and outdoor pools. However, concerns were raised about the sustainability of this growth, particularly in light of rising operational costs and the potential impact of fee increases on accessibility for community members.

Board members expressed worries about the rising costs of providing services and maintaining infrastructure, emphasizing the need for a long-term financial strategy that addresses these challenges. The conversation highlighted the importance of balancing revenue generation with community access, particularly for youth sports programs, which have seen a shift towards privatization.

As the meeting concluded, the board underscored the necessity of engaging the community in discussions about funding priorities and potential bond measures to support future projects. The department remains committed to ensuring that its services are accessible while navigating the complexities of funding and operational demands. The upcoming budget development process will be crucial in shaping the future of Boulder’s parks and recreation services.