Parks and Recreation presents FY26 budget: 10% fee increase proposed, teen programs expanded, Madison preschool to close

Jane Rudolph, director of the Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation, outlined the department’s FY26 operating request to the Arlington County Board on Feb. 27, saying the manager’s proposed budget includes roughly $65.4 million in expenses and $18.2 million in revenue and supports about 409 staff equivalents (approximately 318 permanent and 91 temporary positions).

Rudolph said the proposal contains modest net staffing reductions tied to the county‑wide gap and listed specific program and operating changes intended to preserve core services while addressing cost pressures.

Why it matters: DPR runs facilities, camps and programs used by thousands of residents. Proposed fee increases, program consolidations and reductions in maintenance staffing would change how and where residents access recreation services.

Key program and budget items presented

- Fee increases: the manager’s proposed budget includes a 10% across‑the‑board increase for classes, camps, sports, facility rentals and memberships. DPR estimates the change will generate about $1.5 million in additional revenue; the department also plans to expand its fee‑reduction program (used to subsidize participation for low‑income households) and expects total fee‑reduction…