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Despite absorbing more than $560,000 in spending cuts representing more than 40% of its budget, all of the Hollister Recreation Department’s programs will take place through the remainder of the fiscal year, Director Charles Wall said.
“Balancing the budget this year required some tough choices, and we initially suspended the winter indoor basketball leagues due to their high operating costs,” he said. “Working with city leadership, we have since identified one-time vacancy savings that allow us to restore the program.”
The department’s budget this fiscal year is $727,757 compared to last year’s $1,290,088, a 43.6% reduction.
The cuts, which were part of the city’s effort to address a $10 million budget deficit, also included eliminating the recreation manager and an administrative assistant role, leaving the department with six positions.
Wall said volleyball, which began in July, was delayed a month because staff was busy with the Hollister Independence Rally.
Among the department’s programs are coed soccer, baseball and flag football for youth, and volleyball, basketball and softball for adults.
Hollister Recreation also offers karate classes and hula dance for youth and adults.
In addition to sports, the department hosts several community events such as the Trick or Treat Street on Oct. 31 in Hollister from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Hollister Recreation first held it in 2018, where families can walk on San Benito Street between candy stations.
Earlier this year, Hollister Recreation organized the annual Fourth of July Kiddie Parade.
In the winter the department hosts an ice rink, which has grown to include vendors and other activities including photos with Santa and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony.
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