Reston Association Reconsiders Finances, Priorities Due to Pandemic

Reston Association is taking another look at its finances and budget projections due to the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic.

At a meeting on Thursday, May 21, RA’s Board of Directors will discuss the impact of the pandemic on the budget, revenues, camps, pools, and other items. CEO Hank Lynch is also expected to offer an update on the status of strategic goals recently outlined by the association.

RA expected to see a decline in revenues from The Lake House. The amended 2020 budget also shows expected decreases in allocations for the Walker Nature Center, environmental education, and camp, according to a draft agenda of Thursday’s meeting.

So far, RA has canceled its 2020 summer camps program entirely.

“Based on all uncertainties associated with COVID-19 and feedback we have been receiving from parents of campers, as well as steps taken by other summer camp providers in the Northern Virginia area — Reston Association is canceling its 2020 summer camps program.”

RA pools could see a dramatic decline of 70 percent or more, according to projections in the draft agenda.

“Total pool use will be down significantly… based o near of infection even when use of pools is authorized,” the agenda states.

A $150,000 shortfall is also projected from sponsorship revenues this year.

The association will determine how many pools will open depending on the number of staff that can complete a water rescue test, which cannot be completed online. RA hopes to have enough qualified and certified staff by July 1 to ensure that a minimum of four pools are fully staffed and operational.

It’s also unclear when tennis courts will be open. Depending on when social distancing requirements are relaxed in Northern Virginia, some tennis courts would be open in June. Projected tennis revenue is expected to decrease by 57 percent. 

The meeting begins online at 6:30 p.m.