Town Council plans to finalize water park budget by Thursday meeting

Chesapeake Beach officials are gearing up for a significant decision regarding the future of the town's water park, as discussions continue about a comprehensive plan and budget for renovations. During a special town council meeting on July 8, 2025, council members expressed the need for clarity on projected costs, with estimates ranging from $8 million to potentially over $12 million.

Council members emphasized the importance of receiving a detailed budget proposal from the engineering firm Paddock, which is expected to outline all necessary renovations and improvements. The council is eager to avoid any surprises, insisting that the forthcoming plan must cover all aspects of the project, including previously unaddressed areas like the bathhouse.

The conversation also highlighted the challenges faced by previous administrations, which had attempted to solicit bids for similar projects but received no responses due to uncertainties surrounding the site’s conditions. The current council is determined to learn from past experiences and ensure that the new plan is both comprehensive and feasible.

In addition to the water park discussions, the council briefly touched on a charter amendment, which is set to be voted on in the upcoming meeting. This amendment is expected to address governance issues within the town, although details were deferred for further discussion.

As the council prepares for its next meeting, the focus remains on ensuring that the water park renovations are executed correctly and efficiently, with a commitment to quality over speed. The community can anticipate a clearer picture of the project’s scope and budget in the near future, which will be crucial for moving forward with these long-awaited improvements.