At its Feb. 11 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, commissioners voted to keep most pool admission prices at last year’s levels while approving an extension of Saturday late‑night hours to 10 p.m. and confirming the pool season dates and special events.

The action keeps regular hours the same as the previous season except that Saturday late‑night operations were extended to run until 10 p.m., the commission said during the meeting. Commissioners also set the pool opening for the Memorial Day weekend (May 24) and a closing weekend in early August (Aug. 3), and approved an extra Saturday for season‑pass holders on Aug. 9. The commission agreed to keep a July 4 late‑night opening until 10 p.m. and to run certain events at half price admission; the record of exact fee tallies was not specified in the transcript.

Why it matters: the schedule and pricing decisions determine staffing needs, revenue for the parks system and access for families and season‑pass holders over the summer.

Discussion and rationale
Commissioners discussed how the commission’s fees compare with surrounding counties and noted only minor differences. Commissioners and staff agreed they generally want to keep local prices “in line” with neighboring counties rather than undercutting or substantially exceeding them; one participant noted a $1.90 rate referenced for groups larger than 50 people in nearby jurisdictions. The commission also discussed marketing: staff said they will post flyers, use social media and highlight season‑pass incentives to attract more pool parties and attendance.

Season‑pass incentives and special events
The commission approved an incentive for season‑pass holders that includes one extra Saturday open specifically for pass holders and continued consideration of “pass‑only” party nights. Commissioners also approved offering a prize tied to the local library’s summer reading program: the program winner will receive a season pass and all participants will receive free admission on a single day, subject to administrative details to be worked out with staff.

Vote and outcome
A motion to adopt the hours, dates and related event plan carried after a roll call of “ayes” with at least one member opposing; the transcript records the motion as carried but does not provide a named mover/second or a numerical vote tally.

Next steps and scheduling
Staff said they will finalize advertising and publish the full schedule online once administrative details (season‑pass promotion mechanics and exact fee postings) are confirmed. The commission scheduled a follow‑up meeting in April to continue summer‑season planning; the precise April date will be confirmed by staff.