Vincent Community Board members are trying to cut the ratepayer's share of operating costs at the Molyneux Aquatic Centre in Alexandra.
During the 2008-09 financial year, the pool complex cost $867,000 to operate - $598,000 (69%) of which was paid by the community through rates and general reserves.
Pool user fees and charges covered the remaining $269,000 (31%).
The national average ratio of operating costs for pools throughout the country is 60:40, with the community funding 60% of the cost, and fees and charges covering 40%.
The board yesterday resolved to set a target ratio of 60:40 for the Alexandra pool complex.
It hoped pool management could achieve the target by encouraging more people to use the pool, having more fee-generating programmes, and possibly raising user fees and charges.
Central Otago District Council chief executive Phil Melhopt said a reduction in operating costs would almost certainly result in a reduction of the level of service provided at the facility.
Board member and Central Otago deputy mayor Tony Lepper said ratepayers had accepted their "costly" contribution towards the pool's operating costs, and suggested the status quo remain.
He said Central Otago should not be compared with the national average, because it had two large covered pools (at Cromwell and Alexandra) 30km from each other, to cater for 10,000 people.
However, the board decided to set the 60:40 target as part of a new statement of intent for the Molyneux complex.
Other resolutions were to adopt new user fees and charges, for inclusion in the council's annual plan, and create a three-tier charging system for pool users.
Submissions could be received on the proposed fee and charge changes through the annual plan process, and if adopted the changes could be implemented from July 1.
The board decided the largest subsidy should be given to non-commercial groups, such as schools, followed by sporting and social groups, those involved in competitive events, and lastly commercial business groups.
