The Garland Parks and Recreation Board meeting held on August 6, 2025, focused primarily on the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, with significant discussions surrounding funding allocations and new fee structures for recreational facilities.

The meeting commenced with a summary of the city manager's proposed budget, which was presented to the city council the previous Monday. The parks and recreation budget is set at $14,484,380, reflecting an increase of $861,000, or approximately 6%, from the previous year. This increase is largely attributed to the city's bond program, which prioritizes funding for essential projects.

Key highlights from the budget included a substantial allocation of $1.4 million for the Surf and Swim facility, which encompasses both ongoing and one-time costs. The budget also includes provisions for maintenance of new facilities and an additional $175,000 earmarked for maintenance needs across various parks and recreational sites.

A notable new initiative is the introduction of a graffiti removal program, responding to an uptick in vandalism, particularly at the skate park. The board discussed the necessity of this program and its funding, which is part of the general fund request.

The meeting also addressed the Recreation Performance Fund, which is projected to increase by 18% to $1,858,009.51. This fund is crucial as it relies on generated revenue to support various programs, including those at the Carver Senior Center and the Bob Day Tennis Center.

A significant portion of the discussion revolved around proposed new fees for the Surf and Swim facility. The board reviewed a comparative analysis of fees from similar facilities in the metroplex, proposing a fee structure that includes $10 for youth residents and $14 for non-residents, with adult fees set at $13 for residents and $17 for non-residents. This represents a notable increase from previous rates, with the aim of generating approximately $673,410 in revenue to help offset operational costs.

The board sought feedback on these proposed fees, emphasizing the importance of aligning with community expectations and ensuring accessibility while also addressing the financial needs of the facilities.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the challenges of budget management within the Parks and Recreation Department, highlighting the need for strategic funding and revenue generation to maintain and enhance community recreational services. The board plans to present the proposed budget and fee structures to the city council for approval in the coming weeks.