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Pewaukee parks staff outline proposed 2026 budget, emphasize program growth and equipment needs
Summary
Parks staff presented a proposed 2026 budget showing a roughly $124,000 increase driven by wage adjustments and program expansions; staff highlighted new revenue prospects (tournament rentals, a fifth summer day camp), capital needs (equipment replacement, court resurfacing) and recommended priorities tied to community-survey results.
Pewaukee Parks & Recreation staff presented their proposed 2026 budget, telling the board the plan focuses on modest wage increases for full‑time staff, program expansion and targeted capital investment while preserving reserve balances.
Staff said the parks side of operations would need about $27,000 more next year and recreation about $97,000—roughly $124,000 combined—largely to fund staffing and expanded program offerings. Revenue projections included about $48,000 in additional tournament and facility rental income and an estimated $50,000 in revenue tied to opening a fifth summer day camp at the sports complex.
The capital budget discussion covered vehicle and equipment replacement, potential purchase of a laser grader for diamond maintenance versus contracting out work, and tennis‑court resurfacing and pickleball conversions. Staff noted that buying equipment can pay back over time but requires upfront capital and training; contracting remains a viable option for irregular needs. Board members asked about lifecycle planning, bulk purchasing and intergovernmental group‑pricing discounts.
Staff also reviewed the Lehman Park Fund, which is revenue‑supported and not tax‑subsidized, and warned against drawing down that fund below a conservative reserve level to ensure mortgage and tax obligations could be met if revenue fell. The board moved to forward the budget summary and supporting materials to the village board, common council and finance committee for further review.
Separately, staff presented community‑survey results (about 836 responses), reporting satisfaction rising to 91% in 2025 from 67% in 2020 and noting strong interest in hiking trails, aquatics and youth programming. Staff recommended incorporating the top survey priorities into the department’s five‑year goals and returning with prioritized recommendations for projects and grant opportunities.
