The Wanaka Swimming Pool committee reported on a "rollercoaster year" of lows and highs at its annual meeting this week.
The committee last week lost its pool manager, Fiona Fairbairn, following its decision to offer her the option of a new contract of 16 hours (down from 40) or leaving her job from September 16.
Mrs Fairbairn did not accept the reduction in hours and has commenced Employment Relations Authority mediation proceedings.
The committee has advertised for a new manager.
The committee finished the financial year $23,130 in debt despite a 14% increase in income from swimmers ($87,380), a 50% increase in income from the pool shop ($4575) and $12,071 collected in fundraising activities.
But Meridian Energy's electricity charges rocketed by 81% to $60,207, due mostly to winter costs.
Chemicals and gas expenses increased 55% to $13,025 and wages went up 30% to $104,792.
The pool got a $90,000 grant from the Queenstown Lakes District Council.
During the year, elected chairman Steve Traynor took leave of absence and was replaced by Jude Battson, the Wanaka Community Board's representative on the committee.
Ms Battson said in her annual report the increased power and chemical costs were beyond anyone's control but other costs had been reviewed and would probably need to be reviewed again.
She advocated a more hands-on role by the committee in managing the pool.
Ms Battson was challenged by swimmer Helen Henderson to give assurances the existing pool would continue to be available for the increasing numbers of athletes committed to training for various upcoming events.
"I hope it will be open as much as possible," Ms Battson said.
Among the highs noted by Ms Battson were the increased numbers of pool users, especially in the winter months.
The introduction of eftpos and a new annual pass were also successful.
A report from Mr Traynor, who resigned from the committee after four years service this week and was not at the meeting, was read by Ms Battson.
He described the year as a "roller-coaster", noting increased public attendance and other successes.
He thanked Mrs Fairbairn and assistant manager Mario de Bono for building a "firm foundation" for the pool's future.
