Aquatics budget features modest fee increases; staff testing liquor permit at swim club and beach parking revenue projections rise

Ocean Pines staff presented aquatics and beach-parking budgets that assume modest rate increases and programming changes intended to offset higher payroll and chemical costs. Linda and aquatics staff said the draft includes a $2 daily-fee increase for residents (a larger increase for associates was discussed) and small membership increases; the mid-case revenue scenario shows a sizable uplift from these fee changes.

Aquatics payroll was adjusted to reflect a funded full-time position and higher lifeguard wages; staff said lifeguard recruitment has been successful enough to staff the season with fewer part-time backfills than in years when vacancies were higher. Staff also said they are pursuing a county liquor permit and that, if granted, on-site beverage service at the Swim & Racquet Club could add a modest amount to budgeted revenues.

Beach-parking staff reported small increases in parking membership rates consistent with a pricing review and said the association will continue using a staffed restroom and attendant program for beach facilities. The committee asked staff whether credit-card fees on parking and aquatics transactions should be broken out differently in the overall budget; staff said fee processing revenue and costs are tracked centrally and could be reallocated if the committee prefers a more granular accounting approach.

Committee members asked for a brief post-season report on lifeguard staffing and the effect of the liquor permit if it is granted for the season.