Brooklyn Park Pool Discussion Shifts to Cost

Building  a public swimming pool in Brooklyn Park has been a topic of discussion for years. This summer, residents will be surveyed about what kind of aquatic facility they would prefer, along with what they would be willing to pay for it.

“Last night we found out what the ideas are and the price tag,” said Brooklyn Park Mayor Jeff Lunde. “We’ve always had these great ideas, but how much? And now we start to have some price tags to go with it.”

The city council heard four concepts for improvements to the Community Activity Center. The options include different combinations of pools, a splash pad, a competitive pool and a fitness center that could be built next door.  A 5th proposed option includes a stand alone aquatic center at a different location.

Mayor Lunde says the options range in cost from an estimated $18 million to $43 million.  After surveying residents in June and July, the city council may decide in August to place a bond referendum on the ballot in November.

“Having that engagement and survey will give us good information. That way we right size the ballot,” Lunde said. “Because if people say ‘this is too much, that’s too much, here’s where I’m willing to invest, here’s what I’m willing to pay,’ because again everyone is going to pay. That’s what will get put in front of them. I think in the past we just said here it is. We didn’t do the engagement. We didn’t do the surveys. I think things have changed.”

A November ballot could include two referendum questions.  One would be for the aquatic facility, another for park renovation.