Regner Beach plans $152K budget with new inflatable zone to increase revenue

The Parks & Recreation Commission meeting held on February 23, 2024, focused primarily on the financial projections and operational plans for Regner Beach for the upcoming summer season. The meeting began with a detailed review of anticipated expenses, highlighting a slight increase in beach house attendance and staffing costs compared to previous years.

The discussion revealed plans to hire more lifeguards, increasing the number from 24 to an anticipated 32, with most returning from the previous season. The hourly wage for returning lifeguards is set at $18.50, while the overall wage structure has been adjusted to reflect a slight increase in costs. Notably, the commission introduced a new referral bonus to aid in recruitment efforts, alongside a reduction in the hire-on bonus compared to 2023.

Operational changes included increasing the number of supervisor lifeguards from two to three to ensure better coverage during peak times. The budget for beach supplies is projected to remain under $3,500, covering essential items like lifeguard tubes and communication devices.

The commission also reviewed revenue projections, which included the introduction of a new inflatable zone at the beach. Revenue estimates were calculated based on varying user growth rates, with a conservative estimate of 15% growth anticipated. The Washington County subsidy, which has decreased from $66,200 in 2023 to a projected $47,921 for 2024, was also discussed, emphasizing the need for increased revenue generation as county support diminishes.

Overall, the projected net loss for Regner Beach in 2024 is estimated at $23,330. The commission expressed optimism about the potential success of the inflatable zone and the importance of finding new revenue streams in the coming years as county funding continues to decline. The meeting concluded with a call for ongoing strategies to enhance beach operations and financial sustainability.