Council weighs gate-fee increases and revenue options as aquatic center runs a persistent operational gap

City staff described the aquatic center's operating shortfall and presented possible revenue measures—higher gate fees, targeted nonresident pricing and concession/sponsorship opportunities—during the budget work session.

Staff said recent equipment upgrades (pumps and chemical systems) could lower long‑term utility and maintenance costs but that the facility still operates with a recurring loss. "With this with the redo, probably. And then at a certain point when you, we the the wall system. So usually, you think of pool as a concrete bowl. Ours is actually a stainless steel wall system. And I think the useful life on that is pretty close to 50 years," John said, noting some components will need replacement sooner.

Council members urged more aggressive revenue measures. One councilmember argued for higher nonresident charges and a two‑tiered fee where residents pay one rate and out‑of‑town visitors pay a higher gate fee equal to the operational breakeven price. Staff said the city already offers discounts for cold days and rents the concession stand; staff also discussed renting table space, selling banner advertising and hosting food trucks or paid vendor slots as incremental revenue sources.

Staff emphasized the difficulty of achieving full cost recovery for an amenity that provides community value. They said the facility has historically required general‑fund support and suggested council consider how much subsidy the city wants to continue providing. Staff will provide breakeven calculations under several pricing scenarios at the next budget meeting.

Ending: Staff will run fee‑model scenarios (resident vs. nonresident pricing, surge pricing for busy days, and concessions/sponsorship revenue estimates) and present breakeven targets to council for a future decision.