The Wylie Recreation Center will stay under the control of the city, council decided after discussions concerning the center were held during the May 10 regular meeting.

The recreation center currently operates at a loss, and council has held several meetings to discuss ways to mitigate the loss.
One possibility discussed was allowing the YMCA to take over operations of the center, which proved to be unpopular with many Wylie residents.

The center has been discussed many times over the years, Parker said during the meeting, and asked council for direction on what they expect the budget recovery percentage to be and whether the city should operate the center.

The recreation center opened in February 2011, and since that time, membership fees have seen little change.

Recreation Manager Carmen Powlen presented possible membership fee increases over a three-year period.

Per council request, there was no fee increase for senior citizens, but a one-year membership fee for a child is currently $105 and will increase to $144 in year one, $168 in year two and $192 in year three. The monthly rate is $10 and will increase to $14, $16 and $18.

Teen yearly memberships are currently $105 but would increase to $192, $216 and $240.

One-year memberships for adults are $175 and would increase to $240, $264 and $288.

Powlen also presented data on unique users, revenue and expenses. According to data collected from fiscal year 2018-2019, two percent of the city’s population participates in classes offered by the recreation center. Powlen said rentals, such as the climbing wall or renting the facilities for a birthday party or other activities, showed 6% resident use, and passes showed 13% usage.

Revenue from recreation center classes was $243,879 with expenses at $462,398. Rental revenues were $21,102 with expenses at $65,180. Recreation pass revenues were $582,275 with expenses at $842,791. Total revenue was $847,256 and expenses were $1.37 million.

Powlen’s presentation did not include revenue or expenses for childcare, free offerings such as Summer Kick-Off events, off-site events, merchandise and concessions.

During discussions, Mayor Matthew Porter said he would like to see the recreation center do away with day passes.

Council also suggested Powlen look into offering organized youth sports.

Ultimately, council decided that the city should retain operations of the center, which drew a round of applause from several residents.

Council set a recovery rate goal of 70%.

Powlen said the recreation center recently changed several policies, including now allowing sleeveless workout attire and a rule stating that children 12-15 years old must be within “an arm’s length” of their adult while on the fitness floor.