City aquatics staff told the Overland Park Parks and Recreation Committee that all four outdoor pools opened in 2024, attendance and overall revenue rose versus 2023, but operating cost recovery remained low at roughly one-third.

"We were able to open all four outdoor pools," said an aquatics manager identified as Kat during the committee's annual pools briefing. Staff reported that swim lessons and swim-and-dive participation declined slightly in 2024 while daily admissions and overall pool revenue increased. Kat said the department earned two 5-star StarGuard audit scores in 2024, the highest rating the program awards.

Staff described one safety-related closure: Stonegate pool was drained June 13–18 after staff discovered broken glass in the bottom of the pool. The manager said the cleanup required a full drain, power wash and refill to ensure visitor safety.

On cost recovery, committee members were told the pools recouped about 34% of operating costs through fees and admissions. "That means that we're only recouping 34% of the cost running the pools based off our admissions and a revenue perspective," a staff member said, noting that the figure covers operating costs (staffing, chemicals, supplies) but not bond payments. Staff said the department's fee-recovery target range is 25%–50% under the current fee schedule and that no fee increases were recommended for 2025–26.

Discussion also covered staffing pressures and rising operating expenses, including wages and consumable items, and the committee discussed potential amenities and programming changes to increase attendance. Staff said they are recruiting lifeguards and cashiers for summer hiring and are evaluating options for concessions, including vending machines and partnerships with volunteer groups to run temporary concession sales at events.

Committee members asked about long-term capital needs for older pools. Staff noted that Young’s and Blue Jacket pools retain original concrete shells from earlier construction phases and that larger renovations tend to produce attendance spikes. The committee’s Playbook OP planning process is expected to evaluate a broader strategy for pool amenities and investments.

The committee received the report; no formal action was taken.