02/08/2024
Excited to share this news!
WOULD YOU LIKE TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE DISCUSSION ON COMMUNITY AQUATICS NEEDS?
The Two River City Council on February 5 voted to create a special citizen committee to look into options for providing public pool access for learn-to-swim classes, recreational and general community use.
A community discussion on this subject is in order, in light of the decision of the Two Rivers Family Swim Center to close after nearly 60 years, due to the age and condition of that facility.
The not-for-profit Swim Center's board has stated that they are willing to take responsibility for fund-raising for a new pool facility, if the City would agree to maintain and operate a new pool. Estimated cost for such a new facility is $2.5 to $5 million.
This isn't something anyone is proposing to "jump right into." Indeed, the resolution passed by the City Council on February 5 provides that the special committee investigate and advise the Council and the community on the following:
A. The availability of other, existing area facilities to serve the aquatics needs of the community (such facilities to include the Two Rivers High School pool, Manitowoc Aquatics Center and YMCA pool)
B. How the budgets for community pool facilities in other Wisconsin communities are funded, including the extent of municipal tax support
C. Identifying the scope of programs and services to be offered at a new community pool
D. Evaluating the current location and possible alternative locations for a new community pool
E. Identifying the extent of the capital facilities that would be desirable for a new public pool; including indoor/year-round versus outdoor only/seasonal facility
F. Providing cost estimates for such facilities
G. Developing a pro forma operations and maintenance budget for such facilities, providing detail on both projected expenses and revenues
If the City were to consider taking on the operation and maintenance of a public pool facility, there undoubtedly would be some level of property tax support (in addition to revenue from user fees and sale of passes) required. Voter approval for such an increase would likely be required.
Staff support for the citizen committee will be provided by the City's Parks and Rec Director and staff. If you are interested and feel you could contribute to this effort, contact the City Manager's Office by Thursday, February 15.
Telephone 920-793-5532; e-mail [email protected].
Greg Buckley, City Manager
