Council approves Fitch Aquatic Center budget in concept after staff projects ~$268K first‑year subsidy

City staff presented the proposed operating budget for the Fitch Family Indoor Aquatic Center and council approved the concept, with staff returning with final budget details during the formal budget process.

The staff presentation explained the assumptions used to build the budget: a conservative approach to revenue based on Furman Aquatic Center pass sales, consultant input from Ballard & King for utility costs and staffing projections, and an intent to offer a discounted year‑round pass that combines Furman and Fitch access. For a full year of operation staff showed roughly $1.13 million in expenses and $850,000 in revenues, implying a gap near $280,000. Because Fitch is expected to open partway through FY25/26 staff used 65% of full‑year expenses and 55% of revenues to estimate a six‑month first‑year subsidy of roughly $268,000.

Staff noted two permanent FTE additions in the proposal: a principal clerk and an aquatics coordinator, and said over $800,000 of the full‑year expense is staffing. Council asked about consultant roles, pass pricing and affordability; staff said a year‑round discounted household pass will be offered and staff continues to refine payment options such as monthly ACH and scholarships.

Council action: a motion to approve staff's recommendation in concept carried on roll call. Staff will present final operating budget details during the February budget presentation and council retains opportunity to adjust before final budget adoption.

Context: staff emphasized conservative revenue forecasting because indoor aquatics usage differs from outdoor centers; the presentation fed into broader Parks & Recreation and general fund subsidy projections for the FY25/26 budget.