This spring and summer have been a rough time for the city of Southport’s Parks & Recreation Department.

In March, four of the department’s employees were placed on paid administrative leave, according to a news release the town emailed that day.

Their job titles and identities were not released at the time.

“These actions were due to the appearance of financial irregularities that were discovered after a forensic accounting investigation,” the release stated. “The matter has been referred to the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation for further review and investigation.”

Officials said under the circumstances, the Southport Parks & Recreation Before/After-School Program was suspended indefinitely.

“Parents and guardians will need to arrange for other means of childcare,” according to the release. “We understand the unexpected burden that this places on those parents and guardians and do apologize for the inconvenience.”

Also, as a result of the administrative leave, indoor recreation facilities and buildings were closed, and events were cancelled until further notice, the release stated. Outdoor recreation areas, including the city pier and outdoor park spaces, remained open.

“While this is an active investigation, the city of Southport will not have any additional comment, nor can the city – including elected officials, staff and/or representatives – discuss personnel matters at this time; however, the city will continue to keep parents and guardians informed regarding the Before/After-School Program,” officials said in the city’s March release.

This was still the case as of May 28 in terms of the city officials declining to comment, wrote ChyAnn Ketchum, the city’s public information officer, in an email May 28.

On May 27, however, the city did issue a one-line statement about one reopening.

“We are pleased to announce that the City Gym will reopen for open gym beginning Monday, June 1,” the email stated. “Open gym hours will be Monday through Saturday from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.”

In May, the investigation into the “financial irregularities” continued, as did closings.

“At this time, there are no other updates or future plans for the department other than the gym opening,” Ketchum said June 1.

According to the city’s website, the parks and recreation department “maintains parks, facilities and recreational programs that enhance quality of life in Southport. The department promotes health, wellness and community connection for residents and visitors of all ages.”