Proposed pool improvement grants extended

Despite construction estimates far exceeding what was budgeted for improvements to the McKinley Park swimming pool which stopped the progress, some of the funding behind the project is being extended.

Creston City Council July 18 approved an extension of a $100,000 grant from The Wellmark Foundation for the work. Foundation organizers requested a status update of the project by Oct. 31 and April 30, 2024. A final report is requested by Dec. 1, 2024.

The Dekko Foundation grant of $414,381 was also extended. Of that amount, $100,000 of the amount is to be placed into an endowment for the pool. Dekko requested lifeguard and swim instructor observations and pool user surveys by Sept. 20, 2024.

The first phase of the pool work was estimated at $1.4 million. Bids, received late last year, totaled $1.9 million, creating a shortfall of about $500,000. Since pool organizers could not find enough time or additional funds to make up the deficit, the bids were declined and the project was stopped.

The enhanced pool, under the name McKinley Park Aquatic Center, is planned to have zero-depth entry, a walking channel, slides for all ages, a climbing wall and inclusive play area. The design is focused on being accessible to people of all ages and abilities creating additional activity for the residents.

The project was divided into two phases. Phase I lists the inclusive play area, toddler slide, improvements to the pool make the zero-depth entry and improvements to the mechanical system including a water heater.

In other council news...

Council approved a Community Catalyst Building Remediation Grant up to $100,000 on behalf of Jane Logan for 114 N. Maple. The property is the site of Three Little Birds marketplace. A Community Catalyst Building Remediation Program provides up to $100,000 for the renovation of blighted buildings. The city must be the applicant and provide resources and will contribute $50,000 from fiscal year 2024 budget. This is the same grant Creston used for two Hot Air Brewing and the “Inspire” building.

Bonnie Castillo was appointed to the Gibson Memorial Library Board with the term expiring July 1, 2028.