The Ellensburg City Council convened on April 21, 2025, to discuss several key agenda items, primarily focusing on proposed increases to pool and park fees. The meeting began with a review of the current financial status of the city’s pool facilities, which have not seen a fee increase since February 2017.

City officials reported that the pool operates with a significant subsidy from the general fund, recovering only about 30% of its $900,000 operating budget through user fees. In 2024, the pool generated approximately $278,000 in revenue, highlighting a substantial gap that the council aims to address through proposed fee adjustments.

The council discussed comparisons with similar facilities in the region, noting that it is challenging to find direct counterparts due to differences in amenities and community size. For instance, East Wenatchee charges $8 for pool access, while Pullman charges $4 for youth and seniors and $7 for adults. In light of these comparisons, the council proposed a 10% increase in daily admission fees, raising the cost for in-city youth and seniors from $3 to $3.30, and for out-of-city users from $3.60 to $4.

Further proposed changes include a 30% increase in the price of 10-visit passes and annual passes, with specific adjustments for different user categories. For example, the cost for a 10-visit pass for seniors, youth, and veterans would rise from $21.90 to $28.50 for in-city residents. The council also discussed increases in family swim rates and swim lesson fees, emphasizing the need to balance affordability with the financial sustainability of the facility.

During the meeting, council members expressed concerns about the impact of these increases on community access to the pool, which serves as an important resource for health and safety. The discussion also touched on the need for consistency in fee structures across different facilities and activities, with suggestions to review which fees should be codified versus those that could be adjusted more flexibly.

Public testimony was invited, allowing community members to voice their opinions on the proposed fee changes. The council concluded the meeting by acknowledging the importance of maintaining affordable access to recreational facilities while ensuring the financial viability of the services provided.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing budgetary challenges while considering the needs and concerns of the Ellensburg community regarding recreational access. Further discussions and public input will likely shape the final decisions on the proposed fee adjustments.