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Commission approves modest fee changes amid community outcry over possible six‑month pool closure
Summary
The Parks & Recreation Commission approved a mostly status‑quo fee schedule for FY 2026–27 with limited increases in several youth, swim and contract‑class fees; parents and seniors urged alternatives to a proposed six‑month pool closure, and staff warned the pool operates at a substantial annual loss.
Tina presented the proposed program fee schedule for May 11, 2026–May 11, 2027, saying staff sought to balance recovery of membership levels with market comparables. She told the commission that most fees would remain unchanged to avoid further membership losses after a recent payment‑processing transition; staff recommended modest increases for roughly five to eight line items, principally youth group swim lessons, some youth program fees and contract classes. Tina reaffirmed the department’s existing 3.5% credit‑card convenience fee remains in place.
Commissioners pressed for clarity about which specific programs would be adjusted and which user groups (youth, seniors, military) would be targeted. James and other staff confirmed the adjustments were small and focused on programs identified as below market rates.
Public comment focused heavily on the pool. Multiple parents and residents said a proposed six‑month pool closure would harm competitive swimmers, low‑income families and seniors who rely on the heated indoor pool for exercise and therapy. Caroline Maravilla, a parent and frequent pool user, said the pool draws users from other cities and warned a long closure could mean the facility never reopens for some programs. “If the kids don’t have this place to go to, they’re gonna have to find other options,” a parent said. Nadia, a newer resident, said closing the pool would be “obviously very upsetting” given limited nearby facilities.
Staff described the high fixed and unplanned costs of pool operations, including chemicals, boiler and filtration maintenance, and specialized repairs. James said major mechanical failures can cost tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars and that the facility frequently operates at a loss. “The pool probably operates at a loss of at least... $100,000 to a couple $100,000 to keep,” James said.
After questions and public comment, a commissioner moved to approve the proposed program fee schedule; the motion was seconded and carried by voice vote. The transcript records ayes but no roll‑call tally.
