NORTH PORT, FL – At its regular meeting Tuesday, the North Port City Commission formally approved an updated fee structure for Warm Mineral Springs Park, effective Oct. 1, 2025. This marks the first rate revision since the City assumed full ownership of the park in 2014.
The new structure reflects a phased approach first presented during the July 8 City Commission meeting. It aims to recalibrate multi-visit pass discounts over the next three years, meeting the Commission’s desire to generate additional revenue for infrastructure upgrades and long-term capital improvements at the park and a higher cost recovery for the Parks & Recreation Department.
Additionally, and in recognition of the broader community’s connection to the park, a new Sarasota County resident rate category will be introduced to promote accessibility for nearby households and to support local tourism.
Key highlights of the FY26 fee structure:
- No changes to base daily admission rates.
- Resident rates will apply exclusively to North Port residents.
- Introduction of a Sarasota County rate tier for discounted access to county residents.
- Reduction in the discount applied to the 30-visit pass.
- Elimination of the Annual Pass due to no demand.
“These changes aim to ensure equitable taxpayer access, address imbalances in discount levels, and responsibly plan for the long-term sustainability of one of North Port’s most iconic and valued destinations,” said North Port Parks & Recreation Director Sandy Pfundheller.
In addition, the City Commission provided direction to prepare and share informational materials with the public about the updated rates. Staff will be meeting with park users to promote transparency and understanding of the changes. Staff were also directed to bring back the Warm Mineral Springs Park fee schedule in the future for further consideration.
For more details about the updated rates, please visit NorthPortFL.gov/WMSP.
