Mayor’s Column June 6, 2026
Rohn Bishop, Mayor of Waupun
Hello Waupun,
Yesterday sure was a typical summer-like day! A sunny, hot, and humid day that helped to build thunderstorms that turned severe and produced a funnel cloud in the area. Days like yesterday are a reminder that summer weather isn’t always predictable, and that these storms can just pop out of nowhere.
With sunny, hot, and humid conditions kids like to go swimming, and today the Waupun Family Aquatic Center opens! Our family pass is renewed, and the girls are excited for another summer of fun in the sun swimming.
Every year, I get asked about having free days at the pool. Specifically, why doesn’t Waupun have free days like Fox Lake does? The answer is we would allow a sponsor to host a free day; however, the size and maintenance of our pool is considerably more that Fox Lake’s.
In 2025, operating expenses totaled $239,668 over a 78-day season, which equates to approximately $3,073 per day to operate the facility. Admission fees and season passes generated $73,583 in revenue, helping offset a portion of these expenses. Even with those revenues, the pool required approximately $166,085 in additional funding, or about $2,129 per day, to cover operating costs.
Meaning that, if a business, organization, or individual wished to sponsor a free admission day for the community, a sponsorship of approximately $3,073 would cover the average daily operating cost of the pool. A pool sponsorship would have to be for 2027, because 2026 passes are already paid for, and folks would be upset that they bought an annual pass and then we turn around and offer it for free to others.
If you or your business wishes to sponsor a free day, please contact Rachel at parks@cityofwaupunwi.gov for more information. The aquatic center is managed by Rec. Director Rachel Kaminsky and governed by the Waupun Board of Park and Recreation Commission, whose members are appointed by the mayor with council approval.
The aquatic center is an awesome amenity that contributes to the quality of life for our community, at a cost of $170,000 to city taxpayers. The pool is entirely funded with memberships, user fees, and city funds. The surrounding townships do not contribute. We do try to charge noncity residents more, however it’s mostly on the honor syetem.
Finally, for the last few years, the city has been working with the YMCA of Dodge County to help with lifeguard staffing and training. This partnership has been working well. Being a lifeguard is a great summer job while teaching responsibility and water safety.
Waupun Pool Quick Facts:
Total 2025 operating expenses: $239,668
Pool season: 78 days
Average operating cost per day: $239,668 ÷ 78 = $3,072.67
I hope you enjoy the summer and my kids will see you at the pool!
Mayor Rohn
