District Frequently Asked Questions
How is the facility currently run?
The facility is operated by the Fidalgo Parks and Recreation District, separate from the city or county. It is governed by five elected commissioners.
How much does it cost to run the facility?
Approximately $1.5 Million. We pay salaries, water bills, electricity bills, repair and maintenance costs to name a few. It all adds up!
How is the facility funded?
FPFC is a stand-alone Parks & Recreation District with no affiliation or tax revenue from the City, County, or Schools. Half of our operating budget comes from the levy and the other half comes from user fees.
When will the change go into effect?
2026
Is this a new tax?
The Fidalgo Metropolitan Recreation District would not add a new tax for most people; it would replace the current Operations and Maintenance levy that Fidalgo Island residents already see on your taxes under Fidalgo Park & Recreation District.
How many people use the facility?
The facility is averaging more than 6,500 individual visits each month. This doesn’t include visits by the two club swim teams consisting of 80 youth swimmers and 42 adult swimmers that use the facility almost daily.
Will the Metropolitan District pay for a new facility?
No. The Metropolitan Park District will not fund a new facility. The levy pays only for maintenance and operations. Any future building would need to go to the voters as a separate issue.
How will taxes be affected?
Our commissioners have stated they intend to keep tax rates at historic levels.
How will a Metropolitan District help with stability?
A metropolitan district would ensure we have predictable funds on an ongoing basis. In case of an emergency repair, we may not have the funds needed, and outside financing options are limited as financial institutions must accept a risk under our current limitation of having to no more than six years of funding at a time.
Will voters lose their ability to have input to the facility budget.
No. The budget is approved through open, public commissioner meetings. Residents have a right to address their concerns at these monthly meetings held on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. They may contact the commissioners at any time by emailing commissioners@fidalgopool.com.