The Vista City Council convened on August 12, 2025, to discuss the future of the Wave Water Park, a cherished community asset that has faced operational challenges in recent years. The meeting highlighted two main recommendations: amending the capital project budget for fiscal years 2024-2025 and 2025-2026, and considering the reinstatement of lap swimming for seniors, a program that has been on hold since the COVID-19 pandemic due to staffing shortages.

Recreation and Community Services Director Mike Pacheco presented the need for immediate upgrades to the water park's facilities, emphasizing that the aging infrastructure requires significant investment to ensure safety and enhance the visitor experience. The proposed phase one improvements, estimated at $3.5 million, would modernize the park's mechanical and chemical systems, as well as refurbish the lap pool and surrounding areas. This investment aims to keep the park operational through 2035, when it will celebrate its 40th anniversary.

Public comments during the meeting reflected strong community support for the water park. Residents voiced their concerns about the importance of maintaining the facility for all ages, particularly for seniors who benefit from lap swimming for health and wellness. Many speakers urged the council to prioritize the reinstatement of the lap swim program, highlighting its role in providing safe swimming lessons and recreational opportunities for families.

Council members engaged in a robust discussion about the park's future, with some expressing concerns over the financial viability of the water park and the potential for private management. However, there was a consensus that the Wave should remain a public asset, accessible to all residents without the pressures of profit-driven management.

The council ultimately decided to defer the decision on reinstating lap swimming until the completion of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, expected by the end of the year. This plan will provide a comprehensive framework for future investments and improvements at the Wave Water Park.

As the meeting concluded, the council reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the Wave as a vital community resource, ensuring that it continues to serve as a safe and enjoyable space for residents of Vista and surrounding areas. The next steps will involve further discussions on funding options and operational strategies to enhance the park's offerings while maintaining its accessibility for all.