Nationwide we continue to hear the latest news:
Public facilities closed due to city, county and state financial challenges!
Public aquatic facilities have to maximize revenue opportunities and minimize costs, which require a committed and serious approach to rate structure, programming, marketing, and operational efficiency.
Here are some ideas that are presented in the October issue of Aquatics International on how to do just that:
- Review current price structures for determination of consistency with other publicly provided recreation opportunities as appropriate within the community.
- Expanding aquatic programs by reaching out to groups (such as adults and seniors) through fitness and wellness programs is a way to expand services.
- A committed effort to advertise and market the facility and its programs can result in significant changes in attendance numbers.
- If there are ongoing discipline or horseplay issues, chances are, the facility may be overstaffed. A guard rotation that will limit staffers in a non-guarding situation may be necessary to reduce labor costs.
- Capital cost investments such as variable frequency drives for pool pumps, use of pool covers, high-efficiency pool heaters, and installation of regenerative media filtration are just a few of the steps to reduce operational expenses.
- Repairs of leaking pool tanks and piping can save significantly on water, energy and chemical costs.
- Negotiations with multiple providers of pool chemicals, food services, insurance, and other commodities and contractual services will promote a competitive environment, ensuring the most for your money.