Pool renovation bid more than budgeted

John Van Nostrand, The Creston News Advertiser, Iowa
·2 min read

Dec. 7—The lone bid received and denied for the McKinley Park Aquatic Center (MPAC) renovation was $500,000 more than funds set aside for the project.

Based on the recommendation of the Park and Recreation Board, Creston City Council approved the first phase of remodeling the swimming pool. Bids were due Nov. 29, when Creston Parks and Recreation Board met.

Highlighting the first phase is an all-inclusive splash deck open to the public when the pool is not open. Other features include zero entry to the toddler pool, updating and repairing existing mechanical systems, water heating system and a climbing wall in the lap pool.

Sande Construction in Humboldt submitted a base bid of $1,914,525. Alternatives add $210,384 totaling $2,124,909.

MPAC has $1.6 million for phase 1, of which $100,000 has already been spent. The city of Creston approved matching funds of $50,000 every year for 10 years. Union County Board of Supervisors approved a $10,000 per year contribution for five years.

Grants include Community Attraction and Tourism (CAT) and Wellmark Foundation matching grant. There are local donations for the work.

Alternative bids from Sande Construction are: climbing wall $35,251; toddler slide $25,166; vortex water play structure $100,863; heat system for the wading pool $19,831 and heat system for spray ground $19,273.

Park and Recreation Board approved payment of $50,400 to Waters Edge Aquatic Design and recommend the city council approve. Park and recreation board approved payment of $51,900 to Waters Edge, the aquatic design and engineering firm, for design services.

MPAC members were optimistic improvements could be completed in time for when the pool opens for the 2023 season. Without an approved bid, that seems highly unlikely now.

City council representative Kiki Scarberry informed park and recreation board members to consider a formal request of the city's American Rescue funding for a new cabin, electrical, shower house and updates to the campgrounds. American Rescue funds were provided by the federal government to municipalities to make up lost funds because of the COVID pandemic.

Todd Kinkade suggested the board use local bands and solo artists for the annual Party in the Park. He said he has heard people wonder why the board spends money on a band and loses profit when the party is intended to be a fundraiser. The board favored Kinkade's idea, agreeing to showcase local talent.The event is scheduled for July 1, 2023.