City Council discusses Camp Wiwa budget increase and operational challenges

In the heart of Apopka, city council members gathered under the bright lights of city hall on July 7, 2025, to discuss the future of Camp Wewa, a cherished local retreat. As the meeting unfolded, the council faced pressing questions about the camp's financial viability and operational strategies, revealing a complex interplay of community needs and budgetary constraints.

The council is considering a significant budget increase of 19.1% for Camp Wewa, primarily to accommodate additional staffing hours and capital improvements. This increase comes in response to a rise in rental retreat operations, which have seen a notable uptick in recent years. However, despite these efforts, the camp is still far from breaking even, with officials acknowledging that they are "hundreds of thousands" off from the projected breakeven point set during its purchase in 2021.

The discussions highlighted the camp's current utilization, which includes summer programming, swim lessons, and various retreats for groups like the Florida State National Guard and local scout troops. While the camp has become a hub for community activities, concerns linger about its financial sustainability. The council noted that parks typically operate at a loss, with recovery rates hovering around 25-30%. This reality raises questions about how much more investment is warranted before the camp becomes financially unviable.

A significant point of contention was the condition of the camp's facilities, particularly the aging pool, which is in dire need of renovation. The council is exploring options for either relocating or refurbishing the pool, with estimates suggesting that the project could reach seven figures. The urgency of this decision is compounded by the need for a comprehensive plan that outlines the camp's future direction and potential revenue-generating strategies.

As the meeting progressed, council members expressed a desire for a more robust marketing strategy to promote Camp Wewa. Suggestions included increasing the budget for promotional activities to attract more visitors and enhance community engagement. The idea of collaborating with the new economic development director was floated, aiming to create a fresh and exciting vision for the camp that resonates with both locals and visitors.

In addition to Camp Wewa, the council briefly touched on the cemetery budget, which saw a significant reduction due to a lack of capital needs this year. Improvements to the cemetery entrance, including new automatic gates and landscaping, were also discussed, showcasing the council's commitment to maintaining community spaces.

As the meeting concluded, the council left with a sense of urgency to address the challenges facing Camp Wewa. The discussions underscored the delicate balance between preserving community assets and ensuring they remain financially viable. With plans for further evaluation and potential marketing initiatives on the horizon, the future of Camp Wewa hangs in the balance, awaiting the council's next steps.