Council hears why pool budget jumps as splash pad and chemicals increase costs

A resident pressed the council on what appeared to be a steep proposed increase to the pool budget for the coming year. Staff said the pool was replastered this year and that operating a new splash pad has raised chemical consumption and maintenance needs.

A staff member explained, "We just replastered it. We didn't redo," and described higher chemical usage during summer months and the need to budget more for building and equipment maintenance. Staff reported budgeting roughly $35,000 for pool chemicals while noting year-to-date chemical expenditures were about $36,000.

Pool operations staff described seasonal variation in chemical use — roughly doubling during busy months — and noted ongoing maintenance issues including a leaking filter and rust in the pool building from past chemical application. Council members and residents discussed whether long-term repairs or targeted refurbishments would be more cost effective.

No formal budget decision was reached during the public comment period; the council will consider the full budget during vote sessions.