PENDLETON – Time to break out those surf trunks: The Pendleton Family Aquatic Center opens Saturday for Memorial Day Weekend.

Season passes for the pools will be sold at a 10 percent discount until Friday at the Parks and Recreation office. The office will be open until 8 p.m. through Thursday to sell passes.

The aquatic center had its best income ever in 2002, with $271,000, and daily admissions and concessions were particularly strong.

Expenses, however, were up slightly as well in 2002, partly because of the warmer summer, which lead to more chemicals being used and higher utility cost.

The pools had slightly less of a surplus, with $42,000. The surplus for 2001 was $47,750.

The aquatic center’s income and expenses have climbed steadily from 1998, the center’s opening year, when $235,000 was brought in, and $199,000 was spent. The surplus, however, has fluctuated.

City figures also show that nearly twice as many children as adults used the pool.

The aquatic center raised its rates this summer to offset about $15,000 of wage and other increases, according to city officials.

It was the first rate hike in the six year history of the facility.

Daily rates increased a quarter, and season passes increased by $10 for individuals and $20 for families. Food items that cost more than $1 also increased by 25 cents.

The aquatic center daily admission rates now are $2.25 for youth and seniors, and $3.25 for adults.

Season passes are $50 ($60 for non-residents), $110 for families ($135 for non-residents) and $40 for seniors ($60 for non-residents).

The aquatic center will only be open weekends until June 13. Its hours are from noon to 8 p.m.

The slides pool will have a new fountain element this year, and there also have been maintenance improvements to the facility.

The aquatic center also is offering two new activities.

Pick-up sand volleyball games also will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on Monday and Friday. The games, starting June 23, will be free with admission.

Free water polo also games will be held Wednesday nights, starting June 25.

For more information, call 966-0228 or 276-8100.