Council adopts new fee structure and program plan for Woodland Aquatic Center; facility expected to open late 2025 or early 2026

The Woodland City Council unanimously adopted a new fee schedule and program plan for the Woodland Aquatic Center and the Charles Brooks Community Swim Center as staff prepares to open the new facility in December 2025 or January 2026.

Community Services Program Manager Chris Bain described the new facility as a “state of the art” center with a 10-lane competition pool named the John and Eunice Davidson Competition Pool, a recreation pool with water play features, and a 4,500-square-foot support building with locker rooms and a lifeguard office. Staff said adding the new pool will expand programming, reduce overcrowding at Brooks and allow more swim teams and lessons.

Bain outlined a proposed fee schedule: public swim at the Woodland Aquatic Center would be $5 per day and $3 at Brooks; the city will offer one free public swim day per week at each facility (staggered between the pools), and free access on days with temperatures of 105°F or higher or during Yolo County-declared extreme weather events. Staff proposed a $100 annual family pass (covers up to five household members) or a $50 individual pass. For lap swim and water exercise, proposed daily and monthly rates were $6 and $55 for residents ages 18–54.

The council approved a change to senior pricing: instead of the prior age-55 threshold, the city will define seniors as 63 and older for the new paid senior rates. Woodland residents 63 and older who meet low-income eligibility (aligned to PG&E CARE program income thresholds) would qualify for fee waivers for lap swim and water exercise; staff said eligible residents must apply annually through the Community Services Department.

Bain reviewed how the two pools will coordinate programming: Pioneer High School and recreational swim teams will use the pools on staggered schedules; summer programs will run with lessons Monday through Thursday and public swim seven days per week. Brooks will close for November–December in one phase and the Woodland Swim Team will relocate to the new facility during that period, according to staff projections.

Council members praised the scheduling and the balance between revenue generation and access. Council Member Moreno asked whether low-income family discounts were available; staff said two free days per week and pass options were intended to provide accessibility for families and that staff would continue to evaluate options. Public commenters urged sensitivity to household budgets and noted the $3–$5 daily fee could affect low-income users.

Action: Council approved the resolution to authorize the new aquatics fee schedule and program plan, vote 5-0. Staff said the new fees keep Woodland’s rates competitive with neighboring cities while generating revenue to sustain operating costs.

What’s next: Staff will finalize the schedule and operational details, implement the fee-waiver process for eligible low-income seniors, and continue to adjust programming as the new facility opens.