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Urbanna treasurer reports pool operating loss and outlines Oyster Festival costs
Summary
Treasurer Michelle told the council the town pool ran a seasonal operating deficit of $38,074.70 (May–September) and laid out Oyster Festival expenses, including $51,575 for deputies; she recommended exploring extended hours and partnerships to boost pool revenue.
Urbanna's treasurer presented updated operation figures on Nov. 14 showing the town pool operated at a seasonal deficit and offering ideas to increase participation and revenue.
"The difference was $38,074.70 is which what we went into the negative," the treasurer reported, summarizing May–September operating results after separating construction costs from operational items.
Key details: The treasurer said membership revenue totaled $13,500 but that operating hours (often closing at 6 p.m.) limited weekday usage for working residents; she suggested moving evening hours (for example to 4–8 p.m.) and discussed partnerships with groups such as the YMCA to expand use. She also noted contract and operational costs (lifeguard contracts, chemicals, equipment) and one‑time housekeeping purchases that contributed to the shortfall.
On the Oyster Festival, the treasurer outlined revenue and expense items tied to this year's event: so far four of 23 food vendors have paid meals taxes, $20,750 in business‑license receipts were turned over to the festival to pay security, and festival security costs billed to the foundation for deputies totaled $51,575. Other significant festival line items included insurance and porta‑potties.
What the council discussed: Members asked for a clearer operating‑cost breakout and how contract costs split between fiscal years; the treasurer said some operator costs are split across two budgets and offered to present a condensed, operational‑only breakdown. Council and staff also flagged opportunities to increase evening hours, tighten membership tracking to prevent unauthorized use of passes, and explore additional programming that could boost revenues.
Next steps: The treasurer will supply a revised, itemized operating report and the finance committee will consider hour and partnership changes ahead of next season.
Sources: Treasurer report and council discussion at the Urbanna Town Council meeting, Nov. 14, 2024.
