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Recreation director reports strong ticket and membership revenue but cites staffing and space limits
Summary
Recreation staff told the advisory board Renaud Center memberships and theater productions produced strong revenue in 2024, but the department faces staff turnover, swim-instructor shortages and limited programming space; staff will pursue modest program and staffing changes and bring building/expansion ideas to budget conversations.
Craig, the recreation presenter, provided the board with a year-in-review Jan. 14 and outlined priorities for 2025.
Craig said Abby has moved from the recreation department to parks and the department is seeking her replacement. He highlighted successful programs and revenues: Celebration of Lights and related ticketing yielded six-figure results, and recent theater productions broke attendance and revenue records. "In 2024, the revenue for Celebration Lights was $331,980.23," Craig said, and he noted Scrooge produced about $20,702 in ticket revenue.
Staff also described program growth and operational challenges. Craig said the department served approximately 3,570 campers in 2024 but faces limits on space that constrain program expansion. Aquatics programs experienced instructor shortages that reduced swim-lesson capacity, although improved part-time lifeguard staffing allowed Alligators Creek to open seven days a week, boosting pool revenue.
Craig briefed the board on facility maintenance: Alligators Creek has two underground leaks that will require concrete removal and pipe repairs once weather allows, hail damage to shade structures and play features that needs repair, and work on HVAC and track welds at the Renaud Center. He said the Renaud Center recently added an adult ADA changing table and made front-entry sidewalk changes to improve accessibility.
Board members urged staff to consider building expansion to meet demand for programs such as pickleball. Craig said discussions have occurred but no firm plan or budget was approved; staff will include facilities planning in budget conversations.
The board did not vote on program changes during the meeting; staff said it will return with recommendations and budget implications when available.
