MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—In response to ongoing financial challenges, the City of Marion is adjusting operational costs for the Lincoln Park Aquatics Center. 

After an extensive review of reports from the State Auditor’s Office, which highlighted negative fund balances, city officials have initiated necessary changes within their budgeting structures.

It’s been noted that fare prices for the Marion Area Transit and memberships at Lincoln Park Aquatics Center have remained unchanged since at least 2014. To better align operational revenue with incurred costs, the City has implemented a rate increase for the Lincoln Park Aquatics Center, effective immediately for the 2026 season.

New Season Membership Rates:

– Family Membership (up to 6 members):

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $230.00

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $315.00

– Additional Members (max. 2):

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $25.00 each

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $28.00 each

– Family of 2 (immediate household members):

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $158.00

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $175.00

– Adult Single Member (age 18-54):

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $108.00

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $120.00

– Youth Single Member (age 4-17):

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $77.00

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $85.00

– Senior Member (age 55+):

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $65.00

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $72.00

– Water Walker ONLY Member:

  – Rate Through 04/30/2026: $47.00

  – Rate Beginning 05/01/2026: $52.00

Daily Admission Rates:

– Adult (age 18-54): New rate to be confirmed.

– Youth (age 4-17): New rate to be confirmed.

– Senior (ages 55+): New rate to be confirmed.

– Military: New rate to be confirmed.

– Water Walker ONLY: New rate to be confirmed.

– Toddler (3 and under): Admission remains free.

– Note: Admission after 4:00 PM will be discounted by 50%.

This decision aims to maintain the quality of services at the Aquatics Center while addressing the financial needs of the city. The City of Marion encourages residents to take notice of these changes and plans to continue reviewing its financial strategies to ensure sustainable operations in the future.