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Parks director outlines pool repairs, staffing shifts and community service projects
Summary
Columbia City parks staff reported pool revenue gains after a 2024 admission increase, outlined slide repairs and pump replacements, proposed new events/recreation job descriptions to support an amphitheater, and described volunteer projects at Dreamland and other community events.
Columbia City parks staff told the Park Board on Aug. 28 that changes to pool staffing, upcoming repairs and community volunteer projects are underway as the department prepares for the off-season and for a new amphitheater program.
Staff said the 2024 increase in pool admission from $5 to $7 produced about $19,000 in additional revenue this season, which covered a significant portion of the department’s chemical costs. The parks director reported average summer attendance of roughly 220 people per day on busy days and said pool slide interiors will be serviced beginning Sept. 4; the vendor will polish interiors and address chipping. Staff said the outside of the slides will be scheduled for repair next year because the combined cost to do both sides in one year was “astronomical.”
Maintenance challenges were discussed: two of five pool pump motors have been replaced in recent years; staff said a main pump motor replacement previously cost about $16,000 and another motor cost about $4,000. The director said staff and a colleague will monitor motors during the winter to identify and rebuild failing units sequentially to avoid multiple simultaneous failures.
The board reviewed proposed job-description changes: staff want to create a full-time events and recreation supervisor to coordinate amphitheater scheduling and to provide daytime support for pool and program operations, while a separate recreation position would cover evening programming. Staff argued the changes reflect park growth and a more event-focused calendar rather than increasing seasonal-only positions.
Members discussed volunteer projects by community groups: the Masonic Lodge has undertaken work at Dreamland, including interior restroom floor repairs and plans to address a chronic roof leak; they will additionally shellac picnic tables and place small nameplates recognizing past masters. Staff said cameras cover the front of the building but not rear details.
Staff also summarized other community events (a children’s petting program at Morris Park Pavilion and ongoing Junior Football League activities) and safety concerns at the skate park after several reported injuries; board members encouraged continued attention to helmets and protective gear.
Why it matters: The items shape year-round park operations — from capital maintenance and staffing to volunteer partnerships and public-safety messaging.
What’s next: Staff will proceed with slide interior repairs starting Sept. 4, continue motor monitoring and return to the board with budget details and any recommended staffing changes.
