City department plans $2M budget reductions amid hiring freeze and personnel review

The Boulder City Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting on July 10, 2025, focused on budgetary challenges and staffing issues as the department navigates a hiring freeze and seeks to identify cost reductions. The board discussed the need for ongoing funding solutions rather than relying solely on capital improvement project (CIP) cuts, emphasizing the importance of maintaining service levels while managing financial constraints.

A significant point raised was the department's goal to find $2 million in budget reductions. Staff salaries account for approximately 40% of the operating budget, and the hiring freeze has resulted in 20 vacancies across various positions, including lifeguards and fitness instructors. Currently, the department employs 540 seasonal and temporary staff, with a typical cap of 550, indicating a successful summer recruitment campaign. However, retention of these employees remains a priority, as turnover can impact service delivery.

The board acknowledged that while some positions are critical for operations, others may not be essential, leading to potential service level impacts. The discussion highlighted the need for a careful evaluation of which positions to prioritize for hiring exemptions, with a focus on balancing operational needs against budgetary limitations. The city manager's office will review requests for exemptions on a case-by-case basis, ensuring that critical services are maintained.

In addition to personnel costs, the board is examining non-personnel expenditures, looking for areas to reduce spending without significantly affecting service levels. This includes reviewing past budget allocations and identifying unspent funds. The board anticipates that some capital projects may need to be postponed or scaled back due to staffing shortages and budget constraints.

Overall, the meeting underscored the department's commitment to managing resources effectively while striving to maintain quality services for the community. Further updates on staffing and budget adjustments are expected in the coming months as the board continues to navigate these challenges.