Pool Task Force answers questions about proposed pool
March 18th, 2010Members of the Pool Task Force and City officials, on Saturday, hosted the second of two open houses designed to answer questions about the proposed aquatic center.
Commonly asked questions and the Task Force’s answers to those questions are listed below. A new or improved pool has been a priority for the City. Its current facility, which is more than 40 years old, is deteriorating and maintenance costs are continually increasing. It has been reported that to bring the pool “up to code” would cost an estimated $1.5 million.
The proposed Gaylord Area Aquatic Center is estimated to cost $2.75 million. Gaylord residents, in a March 30th referendum, will have the opportunity to decide whether or not the City bonds for the project. Voters will be asked if the City should be authorized to issue general obligation bonds in an amount not to exceed $995,000 to defray costs for a new swimming pool and related facilities.
What are you proposing to build initially?
It is the Task Force’s goal to provide an aquatic center that will provide a safe and fun facility that will meet the needs of the community and also attract users from the surrounding area.
The base project consists of a zero-depth entry pool, a lap pool and a bathhouse complete with locker rooms. There will initially be one slide, two diving boards and a few other amenities. Other features, as shown in posters displayed around town, will be added later if fund raising efforts are successful. Working with USAquatics, the Task Force chose a design that it believes will serve the community for many years.
Why two pools?
This would allow the recreational pool to remain open while swimming lessons are in session. It is the goal of the Task Force to create more recreational opportunities for all age groups. A two pool facility permits that. The Task Force also believes that more “open swim” time will provide a financial boost to the pool.
What is this going to cost me as a taxpayer?
If the entire referendum amount is needed, then the estimated tax increase, for those living in a home valued at $100,000, is $70 per year or 20¢ per day. It would be less if bids come in under estimate. That increase would be noticed on 2012 taxes.
Do you plan to use all of the $995,000 referendum money?
The initial funding sources for the pool are $1.5 million from the nursing home sale and $300,000 from other City funds. It is anticipated that bids will come in 15-20% less than the architect’s estimate. If this happens, then the entire $995,000 will not be needed. Also, the Task Force plans to solicit volunteer labor and donations to keep costs as low as possible. Currently, the proposed project is “turn key” or completed in its entirety by the contractor.
What would be the fees for the new aquatic center?
The goal is to keep fees similar to what they are now. It is being recommended that the fee is $4.00 per day. This is what swimmer’s currently pay if they attend both the day and evening sessions. The Task Force is also recommending that the cost of family passes remain the same.
Is it necessary to have “fancy” features?
Many of the amenities featured in posters displayed around town are simply future options. It is the goal of the Task Force to construct an attractive facility that provides a variety of activities for all ages. A second water slide and other features would be added as money from fund drives and contributions becomes available.
Why spend so much on something used only 12 weeks each year?
It is the belief of the Task Force that the pool is like other park and play amenities offered by the City – when weather permits, it gets used. Approximately 700 lessons are administered to youngsters each year. The proposed facility would allow that to continue as well as create other opportunities for our youth.
What would happen if we didn’t have a pool?
The Task Force believes the pool is one of the City’s greatest assets. Without a facility, Gaylord residents and others who currently utilize the pool would likely spend money elsewhere for their swimming lessons and swimming enjoyment.
What would this project do to the City’s debt level?
Plans are to stagger this project so that the bond will not be needed until 2011. Because other bonds are being paid off, this would keep the City’s debt relatively flat. The City is committed to keeping the debt at reasonable levels and this would be achieved by staggering the project.
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April 1st, 2010 at 10:20 pm
Aquatic Center.. 2.75 Million.? Sounds really nice, why not throw in a Water slid amusement park too. I hope the Citizens of Gaylord don’t allow this kind of wasteful spending.