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Council debates proposed pool rate increases aimed at raising self-funding to 50%
Summary
City manager proposed 2026 pool-rate changes to raise the pool's self-funding from about 20% to 50%, including a $10 daily admission and larger non-resident increases; council members voiced concerns about rate shock and equity for non-residents while acknowledging rising costs and capital repair needs.
Chardon
City Manager Ben Young presented a proposal to revise municipal pool rates for the 2026 season aimed at increasing the pool's self-funding percentage from roughly 20% to 50%. The proposal would raise daily admission to $10, eliminate a seldom-used coupon membership tier, and increase non-resident fees more steeply than resident rates. The plan seeks to encourage season memberships over single-day admissions and keep resident program rates (swim lessons, swim team) stable where possible.
Council members questioned the pace and size of the increases, suggesting a gradual approach might be less disruptive. Ben said the pool currently covers about 20% of operating costs through revenue and that annual operating costs run roughly $200,000 excluding capital; staff projected more than $80,000 in pool repairs next year. Proponents said a targeted increase is necessary to keep the pool viable; critics warned that significant non-resident bumps could discourage participation and that residency verification at daily admission is imperfect.
The manager and staff said the changes were reviewed by the Parks & Recreation Board and compared with nearby facilities; many resident rates would remain equal to or below peer facilities, staff said. Council did not take a formal vote on rates at this meeting; the manager indicated he would implement the changes under his authority per codified ordinance 943.01 (rates below the $300 threshold), and council will monitor attendance and financial impacts in 2026.
Next steps
Staff will finalize the rate schedule for administrative implementation and report back to council on attendance and financial performance after the 2026 season.
