Joplin Pool Admission Price Increase
By: Jessica Schaer
Updated: March 5, 2013
JOPLIN, MO.--- Schifferdecker Pool admission prices could be going up this year. Council members heard the first reading to increase entry fees from $1 to $4. City staff say the price hike is to cover running costs since the new pool will have upgrades like 4 water slides and climbing walls.
Officials say it is not uncommon for pools to lose money due to their recreational nature. The City of Joplin's pool budget is roughly $300,000 in debt so the price hike is to cover some of those costs.
"This new facility is a modern water park, so to speak, with multiple water slides, multiple things for kids to do. Our operating expenses will be significantly higher. So we came up with the rate of $5 and $4 to help with our operating expenses," says Chris Cotten, Parks Director.
Cunningham is also expected to increase by 50 cents, but Ewert Pool is not expected to cost any more for entry. The Schifferdecker Pool is expected to open Memorial Day weekend.
Officials say it is not uncommon for pools to lose money due to their recreational nature. The City of Joplin's pool budget is roughly $300,000 in debt so the price hike is to cover some of those costs.
"This new facility is a modern water park, so to speak, with multiple water slides, multiple things for kids to do. Our operating expenses will be significantly higher. So we came up with the rate of $5 and $4 to help with our operating expenses," says Chris Cotten, Parks Director.
Cunningham is also expected to increase by 50 cents, but Ewert Pool is not expected to cost any more for entry. The Schifferdecker Pool is expected to open Memorial Day weekend.
