Wells officials warn of beach enterprise shortfall; lifeguard pay and restrooms highlighted

Town staff briefed selectmen on the Beach Enterprise Fund and multiuse/mooring pass proposals, reporting a low fund balance and recent operating deficits.

Jody (beach/enterprise staff) presented seasonal revenue and expense data, stating the enterprise fund had a November balance of $193,443.42 and that the prior season produced a loss of about $147,000 amid 48 rainy days and higher payroll and contract costs. Staff said there are no tax dollars earmarked for the beach enterprise; the fund must cover operations and capital projects such as seasonal restrooms.

Discussion focused on options: holding sticker prices steady (the board raised rates last year), targeting reserves for restroom work, and controlling CIP expenses. Board members noted lifeguard pay increases and the cost of accreditation contributed to payroll growth; the fire chief and other staff said competitive pay is required to retain lifeguards.

Staff confirmed the multiuse pass had been priced at $50 in recent years with cost sharing (roughly $45 to enterprise, $5 to the transfer station sticker). The board debated whether to delay changes to give businesses and residents notice or to adopt a new schedule ahead of the budget cycle.

Next steps: the beach enterprise will begin selling multiuse passes in January and monitor meter collections; staff and finance will continue to report fund balances and potential capital needs during the budget process.