City of Marion asked to fund kiddie pool
Work session may be scheduled to discuss proposals
By ROWENA PLETT
Staff writer
"Where are we going to get the money?"
That's the question Mayor Mary Olson asked of Marion City Council after USD 408 Superintendent Lee Leiker informed them Monday that the city would have to provide funds for the kiddie pool at the new sports complex. The cost of the pool is $15,000.
"It wouldn't be right for the school district to pay for something that isn't used in its curriculum," he said.
Leiker noted a kiddie pool wasn't included in the original plans, but residents adamantly requested one during public forums.
He said a space has been provided for an outside pool at the south end of the complex, and the necessary plumbing is being installed. He said two steel doors will provide direct access from the indoor facility to the outdoor kiddie pool.
Leiker also provided pictures of various spray features that could be installed for the youngsters' enjoyment.
The pool bill would be due in June.
Alternatives
Leiker provided the council with a list of projected costs for operating the indoor pool, including costs of water, pump, heater, and chemicals. All of these will be split between the school district and the city.
Leiker also presented several alternatives which would provide cost savings.
He estimated that putting solar heating panels on top of the building would reduce heating costs from $22,800 a year to $7,400. He said the $30,000 cost to install the system would be recouped in four years. It would be environmentally friendly and would be unseen.
Leiker also proposed installing an ionization system that would greatly reduce the need for chemicals to treat the water. He said it would cost $10,000 to install and would produce softer water without the chlorine smell. With the cost of chemicals estimated at $14,275 a year, the system would pay for itself in one year.
The cost of the alternative systems would be split between the city and school district.
Olson proposed scheduling a work session to discuss Leiker's proposals to come up with a feasible plan.
Bill Holdeman expressed enthusiasm for the new pool and the kiddie pool.
"I think it's great," he said. "It's something that Marion needs."
