Recreation budget rises as township absorbs pool operations; splash pad deferred to 2026

Ken Jacobs, West Windsor's recreation and parks manager, told councilors on March 5 that 2024 was a strong year for programs and that the township now includes the pool complex in the recreation fund after taking over operations.

"This year, we got them in. So I'm very pleased with that," Jacobs said, reviewing 2024 event returns that included community day, movie nights and a new Diwali celebration. Jacobs said summer remains the busiest season with the pool and day camps.

Jacobs told the council the recreation operating request includes a 12.9% increase for pool-related costs in 2025 which he said reflects higher pool-supply prices and the retirement of a long-serving employee; the budget includes a temporary consultant for transition. He also said fees were not recommended to change this year and that revenues were strong in 2024.

The council approved raising the Community Day line item from $7,500 to $10,000, Jacobs said, citing higher vendor and ride costs. He said staff will seek sponsors for the drone show and other events and is preparing sponsor packets for community-wide events.

On the pool and potential splash pad, Jacobs said the splash-park timeline was pushed to 2026 to allow time to build a funding cushion: "It was pushed out to '26, because if we go 1 more year, we may have enough money just to fund it without actually putting a separate line item in depending on how things go." He described a planned first step as hiring a design/architectural firm to do a feasibility study and produce specifications; Jacobs said that could happen in the fall if seasonal revenue keeps reserves healthy.

Separately, Jacobs and staff discussed capital requests for park repairs and upgrades tied to a general park improvement fund used for playground maintenance and repairs. Jacobs said the township aims to make Duck Pond Park more of a second community park with bathrooms, utilities and an inclusive playground; he noted Mercer County has committed about $500,000 toward Duck Pond improvements.

Jacobs also reported recreation will continue to seek sponsorships and said pickleball courts and programs have been popular. He told the council the expanded basketball program now covers grades 3 through 8 and that the department is discussing a possible high-school division next year.

No formal council votes were taken on the recreation operating request at the March 5 session; staff said final budget actions will be scheduled in the coming weeks.