2. Cost recovery
The goal of most aquatics facilities is to cover as much of the expenses as possible with revenue generated from season passes, daily gate fees, concessions and programs like swim lessons. The higher the percentage of cost recovery, the more revenue offsets expenses.
Collectively, Lenexa’s outdoor pools operate at a relatively low cost recovery level, at just above 60% annually on average. That means the City diverts resources to cover the costs to operate them.
Our community pools are more heavily subsidized than most due to their age, large size, lack of modern amenities and declining attendance. Ideally, our outdoor pools would break even or require only a small subsidy so we can provide a diverse range of recreational offerings for the community.
3. Staffing needs
It takes a lot of staff to safely and effectively operate Lenexa’s three outdoor pools. There are 10 different jobs that require more than 130 pool employees, in addition to maintenance personnel and additional administration services.
Lifeguards make up the majority of positions filled, with 85 being hired per season. Lifeguards work more than 18,000 hours between the three pools. The number of lifeguards needed at any given time varies, but typically Ad Astra Pool and Flat Rock Creek Pools each require up to eight lifeguards to operate the pool during open swim, and Indian Trails Aquatic Center requires up to 14.
In an average year, about 40 new lifeguards are trained and hired. Due to COVID-19 training restrictions and modified pool openings, roughly 65 new lifeguards will need to be trained and hired for the 2021 season. Certification training classes are 27 hours long and offered by the City for Lenexa lifeguard applicants. Additional training during the pool season helps sustain and improve safety skills.
Increasingly, many communities — including Lenexa — are struggling to recruit, train, and hire enough lifeguards. The City of Lenexa puts significant effort into creating a positive culture and work environment, and recruitment and retention is successful because of that. As the City explores options for the future of aquatics, staffing and lifeguard requirements should be considered.
Learn about aquatics job opportunities
Trends in aquatics
Most newer recreational aquatic facilities mimic larger waterparks with popular features like lazy rivers, wave pools, zip lines, large water slides, splash pads, active features and play structures for kids. These amenities are designed to attract more users and revenue. Older facilities with fewer features face tough choices to stay competitive in such a market.
About splash pads
Cities are increasingly installing splash pads as a water recreation option. Splash pads offer various water sprays and nozzles, as well as different types, heights and intensities of water play that a user can interact with. They provide access to water recreation for both swimmers and non-swimmers, and they attract users of all abilities.
A splash pad does not replace the experience provided by a swimming pool. But it can serve those who may not frequently attend a pool for various reasons, including: scheduling, fees, ability to supervise children, or just not being interested in swimming.
Splash pads can be more accessible than a traditional swimming pool through operating more hours in a day and during a longer season. Admission costs are often lower than for a swimming pool. In many communities, splash pads are free to use.
Splash pads typically cost less to build than a swimming pool and are less expensive to operate, largely because they require fewer staff. Revenue generation is possible through rentals, birthday parties and concession sales.
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