Southtowns Record

YRCM05.20.2026

Government
Town of West Seneca
Board
Youth & Recreation Commission
Meeting
May 20, 2026, 6:00 p.m.
Posted by publisher
Sep 23, 2026
Kind
Minutes
Topics
Parks and recreation, Budget and taxes

Original document

Same meeting

Text · page 2 of 4

WEST SENECA YOUTH & RECREATION COMMISSION -- MEETING MINUTES WEST SENECA
  COMMUNITY CENTER, 1300 UNION ROAD, WEST SENECA, NY 14224

installed by the end of June and the fencing later in the year following repairs to storm lines and
hazardous tree removal.
  •  Data Inquiry
Chairperson Blonski requested an update on the data report previously discussed in January,
seeking additional details on attendance, budgeting, and post-program surveys. Recreation
Director Cox confirmed he has the information and will provide it to the Commission.
  •  Recreation Director’s Report
Recreation Director Cox provided a comprehensive update on Recreation Department activities,
summer programs, and facilities. Mr. Cox announced the splash pad opened on May 18 and the
pool is on track for a target opening of late June. The Town Board has approved using Ellison &
Associates for lifeguard certification and training to address a shortage of certified swim
instructors. The department has hired 28 lifeguards to date. Mr. Cox and four leadership team
members will undergo a "train the trainer" program to bring all certification processes in-house,
creating a sustainable staffing model.
Mr. Cox reported that expanded pool hours have been published, including more family and
evening swim times, and moving the adult lap swim to 9:00 AM. A dedicated, full-time swim lane
has been ordered. New programs will be introduced, including "Fridays at the Pool," featuring
games, trivia, and music. A new unlimited-use pool membership pass, managed through the
MyRec system, has replaced the previous punch-card system, with 29 of these new passes sold
to date. A membership policy is being developed for non-bathers. Sun shades are expected to be
installed by the pool's opening.
Mr. Cox reported that registration for summer programs began on April 1, 2026, and most
programs are at full capacity with waitlists composed entirely of residents. In response to public
demand from surveys, half-day camps have been expanded from 2.5 hours to 4 hours, and
before-and-after care is being offered. A full-day camp was not feasible this summer due to state
permitting requirements. New initiatives for parks include "Sunday Funday," a weekly event
rotating to different neighborhood parks, a "Rec in the Park" program stationing staff at a central
location like the Soccer Park, and a staffed kids' area at the weekly Farmer's Market.
Ms. Latham asked if the Ellison "train the trainer" program could become a revenue generator. Mr.
Cox responded that the primary focus is currently on opening the Town's pool. Ms. Latham also
inquired about residency rules for the family pass. Mr. Cox confirmed that non-resident rates are
double the resident rates and that anyone listed in a resident's MyRec account, including non-
resident grandparents, can be included on the pass. He stated the department collects all usage
data for future analysis to ensure policies do not create barriers for families.
  •  Additional Commission Meeting(s)
Motion by Chairperson Blonski, seconded by Ms. Adrian, to schedule a Youth & Recreation
Commission meeting for June 17, 2026.
Ayes: All  Noes: None  Abstain: None  Motion: Carried
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