Englewood ramps up for summer: Pirates Cove hiring, new passes, EV chargers and in-house concessions

Aquatics and recreation managers told the Englewood Parks & Recreation Commission the city is preparing for a busy summer season with expanded staffing, programming and new revenue efforts.

Aquatic manager Andy Bethard said the department has "about 70 people that are either hired or currently going through the hiring process" and a staffing goal of "roughly about 225 total team members" for Pirates Cove. He described preseason maintenance including new strainer baskets, a replacement motor for a lazy-river pump and a competition pool that was power-washed and refilled as the first pool to have water.

Recreation manager Sarah Stant reported about "68,000 people through our doors in the last 3 months," and said the department introduced short-term passes (28-day, three-month and six-month options) to offer flexibility during anticipated bond-related construction. Stant said seasonal hiring is proceeding for lifeguards, swim instructors and summer camp staff; summer camp enrollment stood at roughly 75 children at the time of the meeting.

Staff also said they will take over operation of snow-cone and funnel-fry carts previously run by a third party, a move intended to capture more concession revenue though staff noted extra safety training is required for fryers. The rec center will also host new adult changing tables in a universal restroom and add EV chargers in the northwest parking lot; staff will close part of the facility briefly to allow safe electrical work.

Commissioners asked whether the city will collect charger revenue and how short-term passes will be communicated; staff are coordinating with the sustainability coordinator and plan FAQs on Englewood Engage for public questions. Training for leadership and lifeguards starts the first training weekend ahead of the Pirates Cove opening May 23.