In November 2009 the citizens of Des Moines voted for the formation of the metropolitan park district to keep Mount Rainier pool open. The five commissioners moved quickly to organize and form the district, and to develop and implement a business plan. The district secured a two-year loan from King County of $350,000 dollars to provide for operating expenses prior to receipt of tax revenues. The district has kept the overhead low and operated under budget. The 2010 budget was $150,000 and the district spent $110,000 ending the year approximately 35 percent under budget. Repayment of the loan by end of 2011 is anticipated.
Over the past 17 months key improvements have been made to the pool and building: new energy-efficient lighting in the natatorium and locker rooms, repair to the parking lot, replacement of the pool heater, and hiring a part time maintance person. Future improvements include repair of the heating and ventilation system, additional energy related improvements, replacement of lockers and updating the signage.
Consistent with the district’s mission of “A water-safe community that celebrates our aquatic heritage”, the overriding goal of Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District is that every child in Des Moines knows how to swim. To that end swimming scholarships for low income children have continued through the help of the Des Moines Legacy Foundation.
The district website is up and running; www.desmoinespool.com. Posted on the site are the agendas and minutes of the district meetings. The Board of Commissioners invite you to attend the district meetings. They are held the first Tuesday of the month from 7pm until 9pm at the Midway Sewer District offices, 3030 South 240th Street, Kent WA.
Signed
Board of Commissioners, Des Moines Pool Metropolitan Park District
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