Antioch budgets recreation shifts: water park reopening, teen programs and sponsorships eyed

Recreation staff told the council the city’s recreation fund includes modest ending balances designated for turf and field maintenance and that the reopened water park and improved sports fields are increasing demand for programs and rentals.

Director Wright described recent sponsorship and fundraising gains—about $37,520 in short‑term sponsorships year‑to‑date—and said staff has nearly doubled community sponsorships for special events. Wright recommended a modest pilot to expand teen programming and suggested that a $10,000 pilot fund could subsidize participation for teens in need.

Councilmembers encouraged trials of fee-based offerings (for example, 3‑on‑3 leagues and eSports) and urged staff to pursue private sponsorship for facility features. Wright said staff will cost out options and return with proposals; he also noted part‑time wages are rising and that program budgets assume higher hourly costs and some increased hours to expand offerings.

The council asked for clearer accounting of held fund balances (turf, city park and Memorial Field maintenance) and requested itemized amounts so members can assess how much is available for new projects or matching grants.

Next steps: staff will return with an itemized breakdown of recreation fund balances, scoped cost estimates for proposed teen‑program pilots and a plan to pursue sponsorships tied to specific assets.