BBMWD board approves Paddlefest permit, previews $1 million reserve fund proposal

The Big Bear Municipal Water District board met Thursday, May 7, greenlighting a summer water event at Swim Beach, accepting a major tourism donation for fish stocking, and taking its first detailed look at next year's budget — with a second review scheduled before any formal vote.

Paddlefest gets the green light

The board unanimously approved the special event permit for Paddlefest and Swim the Bear on Sunday, June 28, with both events set to begin and end at Swim Beach.[1] The permit comes with a notable change: Paddlefest is no longer tied to Lakefest, and event promoter Matt Smith told the board that organizers are eyeing a future 10K open water swim event as a standalone draw.[1]

Visit Big Bear brings a $50,000 check

Travis Scott of Visit Big Bear appeared before the board to present a $50,000 check for fish — tied to the organization's Fishin' for 50K event partnership with the district.[1] Scott noted the Visitors Bureau's goal is to drive economic impact in the valley through community events, and he thanked the district for its ongoing cooperation.

Budget draft: a $1 million reserve fund floated

General Manager Jared Cheek walked the board through the first draft of the FY2026-27 budget line by line, covering revenues, the General Fund, departmental expenses, and various capital accounts.[1] The board's direction included exploring a formal Reserve Policy and establishing a $1 million Reserve Fund to be funded through the Capital Improvement Fund.[1]

No vote was taken — the board made clear it was reviewing a first draft only — and an updated budget document will come before the board at the May 21 meeting.[1]

Around the district

The lake is in better shape than a year ago: as of May 7, the water level sat about 6 feet 1 inch higher than on the same date in 2025.[1] On the water access front, the East Launch Ramp remains the only ramp open through Memorial Day, and the district has logged 383 boat launches this season — consistent with last year's pace — along with 54 paid decontaminations.[1]

Cheek also introduced Phillip Young III, who grew up in Big Bear and has joined the district staff, to the board.[1]

What's next

The BBMWD board meets again Wednesday, May 21, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the district office at 40524 Lakeview Drive in Big Bear Lake. The updated FY2026-27 budget draft is expected to be the centerpiece of that meeting. Residents can attend in person or reach the district office for more information.