PRINEVILLE, OR -- There have been various efforts over the past decade to develop an indoor pool complex in Prineville; and the latest plan has stalled, as well. The current outdoor pool is over 60-years-old.
Crook County Parks and Rec Executive Director Duane Garner says an advisory committee conducted a feasibility study and considered a number of design options. "The cost of all of those options are pretty significant and it’s basically been determined that the Parks and Recreation District, as an individual entity, it’s probably beyond our reasonable capacity to even consider going out for a bond." He tells KBND News the least expensive, simplest indoor pool design would cost $17 to $18 million.
Garner says they’re now talking with the city and county about a possible joint venture. "As a multi-governmental structure, can we afford to build this pool? So, that’s basically what question is on the table: ‘could the county potentially be the entity to go out for a bond?’ And, it’d be the entire county and not just the Parks and Recreation boundaries, which are a little larger than the city limits, basically." But first, he says they need to gauge community support. "The city volunteered to put $5,000 and the county as well, and the Parks and Rec district, and then there’s been some money raised by this committee, to do a formal, scientifically valid survey of the entire county just to see where people are at. Is there enough desire on the people’s part to do this that they’re willing to pay for it? And if so, then how much?" That community survey will take place over the next month, after which time the Pool Advisory Committee and Parks District will consider their options.
Garner says the advisory committee would also like to expand, to get more people involved in the process. Those interested in joining the committee are encouraged to contact the Crook County Parks and Recreation office and request an application.
