The board discussed the financial implications of fitness programs, particularly focusing on the revenue generated through sponsorship programs like Silver Sneakers. With annual revenue from these programs amounting to $13,360, questions arose about the discrepancy between revenue and participation. Concerns were highlighted regarding the high percentage of non-residents, approximately 70%, availing these subsidized services, which has financial implications for local taxpayers. The board debated whether to eliminate the sponsorship programs or adjust rates to better align with actual usage and costs, ultimately suggesting a more comprehensive review of the program’s structure to address an estimated annual revenue gap of $65,000.

Alternative solutions were proposed during the meeting, including scholarships for residents facing financial hardships, allowing them to access gym services without relying on sponsorship programs. This proposal aimed to support local residents while addressing revenue needs. The board acknowledged the complexities of managing fluctuating enrollment and usage patterns and emphasized the importance of a balanced approach to serve local taxpayers while accommodating visitors.

Attention then shifted to the growing popularity of pickleball, a sport that boosts attendance at local facilities. With over 40 participants during peak times, pickleball has become a key feature distinguishing Cape Canaveral’s facilities from other local gyms. The board discussed dynamic pricing during winter months to encourage early purchases of annual passes, thereby improving cash flow. Suggestions were made to enhance marketing efforts to highlight activities like pickleball and indoor walking tracks.

The meeting also highlighted the need for playground equipment replacement at a local park. The “big red spiderweb” structure, a long-time favorite among families, was removed due to safety concerns and the inability to procure new parts. Previous attempts to keep it operational through repairs were acknowledged, but the equipment finally reached the end of its life cycle. The board discussed a deferred budget for playground replacement and planned to submit another Capital Improvement Program (CIP) request for the upcoming year. The need for timely budgeting was emphasized, as delays have resulted in children missing out on outdoor activities.

Concerns were also raised about the local baseball field, where new clay and base pads have been added, but lighting issues persist due to outdated electrical infrastructure. The team is seeking an electrical contractor for repairs, exploring options to accommodate Little League games despite the lighting challenges. The board discussed the capital improvement process for the playground project, now requiring a budget adjustment from $400,000 to $500,000 due to rising costs. Challenges in securing state-level grants were acknowledged, with past experiences highlighting the competitive nature of funding applications.

Further discussions included the maintenance and renovation of tennis courts. Various vendor quotes were considered, with the board favoring a proposal to fully remove and replace court 5 after addressing underlying issues. This option was deemed the most viable despite its cost, as it minimized potential disruptions. The board also considered replacing shuffleboard courts with dedicated pickleball courts, responding to community preferences and addressing underutilization of current facilities.