Swimming pool fees to increase in 2012

Published 10:24 am Thursday, January 5, 2012

Austin Municipal Pool fees are set to increase this summer.

The Austin Park and Recreation unanimously approved the increase at a Wednesday night meeting. Season pass and swimming lesson prices will both increase from $25 to $30, and daily admission will increase from $3 to $4, according to Park and Recreation Director Kim Underwood.

Parents who sign up their child for swimming lessons and a season pass at the same time will get a $10 discount off the new price, and therefore will pay the same price as last year.

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“We’re trying to keep it as inexpensive as we can,” Underwood said. “Our prices have not gone up since 2007 … and our daily admission has been $3 since 2003.”

Underwood said increased operating costs led to the increased fees. Since the last price increase in 2007, the cost of lifeguard certifications and minimum wage have gone up. Underwood said board members hope the increased revenue might allow the pool to stay open longer in the future.

“If we can raise enough revenue, we’re going to anticipate watching our budget to see how we come along and see if that helps us,” Underwood said.

Children age 2 and younger can still get into the pool free.