Why Did Pool Prices Increase So Much?!

Sequestration, furlough, deep cuts to the defense budget…

These have certainly been buzz-words within the Air Force since the beginning of 2013. Unfortunately, these have also represented some very real challenges in how we’ve historically operated …and moving forward, how we continue to operate. For Altus AFB there is very little argument in regard to the extreme impact on positive morale our swimming facility provides.

The challenge? It is very, very expensive to operate a swimming pool. Historically, Altus AFB like most other bases has received a significant subsidy in the form of Appropriated Funds (APF); tax dollars designated specifically for this type of support. For 2013, there are no APF funds available for swimming pool operations. For a large number of bases the quick and easy decision was closing their pool program for this summer.

For Altus AFB, closing our pool for the summer was not an acceptable option! For weeks we have been crunching numbers (staffing, operating hours, opportunities and potential expense off-sets). In order to utilize Non-Appropriated funds (NAF’s or funds generated locally through service fees), we had to seek Air Force approval pursing a waiver for our fund source. To receive approval, we had to present a business case with a realistic end goal of breaking even and not losing money. Thanks to a lot of innovative inputs and careful analysis we were successful in receiving Air Force approval to move forward.  We were the FIRST base in the entire Air Force to receive approval! Yes, pricing was increased. In some areas, such as daily fees, double from last year. In others such as family passes for 5 or more, the cost was increased a total of $65 or $13 per family member.

It is our hope that operating the pool this summer will continue to increase morale and that you will support the pool through the summer. It is also our hope that the future will provide a brighter financial picture for a facility and program iconic to Altus AFB.