Budget cuts force Kings Mill pool to close
Update 4-5-2011: Due to budget cuts, the Kings Mill pool and associated facilities at 9018 Field St. will be closed, a move that will save the city about half a million dollars in operating and capita improvement costs. The closure of the pool became official with the adoption of the 2011-2012 budget on October 25.
What’s next?
Based on input received at the November 8 public meeting, Parks staff is looking into options that include the addition of kid-friendly activities that appeal to a range of ages. Specifically, ideas being explored to complement the existing playground and tennis courts include a shade shelter and picnic tables, play elements focused on spinning and climbing, and a skate spot (a small skate park, appropriately sized for a neighborhood park). Other ideas being explored include the possibility of improving sledding opportunities on the site.
Renovation of Kings Mill Park is scheduled to begin in 2011.
Proposed Renovated Park Amenities
Multi-use Turf Field
Tennis Courts (2)
Picnic Shelter
Skate Park/Spot
Climbing Boulders
Swings and Spinners
Parking
Staff will be incorporating these ideas into a site master plan, and is applying for a Jefferson County Joint Venture Grant to increase funding for the project. Check back here periodically for updates as the master plan evolves.
If you have comments or suggestions to share, please contact Becky Eades, landscape architect, 303-658-2214, or email beades@cityofwestminster.us.
The difficult decision to close this neighborhood facility was made out of necessity. The City of Westminster has implemented staff reductions and several program and service cuts in order to meet a projected $3.6 million budget shortfall in 2011.
Why Kings Mill?
The Kings Mill pool and facility is more than 30 years old and despite ongoing maintenance faces major construction needs in the coming years. According to an analysis done by a two outside engineering firms, capital costs total approximately $508,400.
The pool site needs include:
- drainage and storm sewer improvements - $182,000;
- boiler replacement, associated plumbing - $50,000;
- sand filter replacement - $21,000; and
- structural repairs to the boiler room - $15,000.
In addition the building (now vacant) is in need of:
- roof replacement - $100,000;
- structural repairs - $70,000;
- a sump pump installation due to water under the building - $20,000; and
- siding/paint replacement - $50,400.
You can view a short slideshow that has examples of some of the repairs that are needed. View the slideshow.
At the same time, the pool serves a small portion of the city recreational users and generates a comparably low amount of revenue. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Kings Mill pool was open for 86 days in 2010.
- Total 2010 usage was 2,048 people, about 24 people a day.
- In 2009, the pool averaged about 29 people a day.
- By comparison, Countryside pool in 2009 averaged 168 guests per day.
- Ceasing pool operations will save $20,000 in annual staffing costs and $4,000 in chemical and supplies. The proposed revenue loss with the closure is estimated at $5,200, thereby resulting in a net operating savings of $18,800 per year.
The Jefferson County Head Start program, which leased the building at the pool site, has already relocated to a new facility as part of its streamlining efforts.