Council Rundown 8/18/2026

August 20, 2026

Pool Study Work Session

Presentation:

  • Representatives from ISG presented the results of a detailed assessment of the Kimberly Park Pool and its supporting facilities. The study focused on:
      • The condition of the pool structure
      • The source of water loss from the pool
      • The bathhouse and pump house
      • ADA accessibility requirements
      • Equipment and infrastructure needs
      • Estimated repair costs
  • The pool itself was identified as the most significant concern. The engineer explained that the pool is more than 80 years old and has extensive cracking, voids beneath the structure, and numerous age-related deficiencies. While repairs are possible, many improvements would be required simply to bring the facility up to current code standards and extend its usable life. The engineer presented two options to Council:
      • Option 1: Short-Term Repairs
        This option would involve sealing cracks, filling voids beneath the pool, as well as ongoing maintenance and repair work. This comes with an estimated cost of $55,000 per year to maintain on top of the code compliance cost of $802,000. However, engineers stressed this is only a temporary solution and not something they would recommend as a long-term investment. The pool’s condition would continue to deteriorate over time, with increased maintenance costs each year.
      • Option 2: Replace the Pool Structure
        This option would involve: replacing the entire pool structure, potentially creating a zero-entry pool, replacing pool decking, addressing ADA compliance issues, stabilizing soils and correcting settlement issues, and replacing portions of mechanical equipment and piping. This comes with an estimated cost of $2.9 million for the pool portion alone, with an additional $385,000 for additional site improvements. When all recommended repairs are added together, the total cost approaches $4 million.
  • The engineer noted that for that level of investment, the city should seriously consider whether building a new facility would provide greater long-term value than continuing to repair a nearly century-old pool.

Discussion:

  • Several council members and residents expressed concern about investing millions of dollars into an aging facility. Points discussed included:
      • Previous pool repairs only lasting a fraction of their expected lifespan.
      • The community’s desire for a facility that attracts residents and supports future growth.
      • Comparisons to neighboring communities that have built newer aquatic facilities.
      • Concerns about building a facility large enough to serve future population growth.
  • Council members also discussed the possibility of creating a facility that serves multiple purposes, such as:
      • Community gathering space
      • Youth center activities
      • Storm shelter capabilities
      • Rental and event space
      • Other year-round uses that could help generate revenue and qualify for grants

Funding and Sustainability:

  • A large portion of the discussion focused on how a future pool project might be funded. Staff explained the pool historically did not generate enough revenue to cover operating costs. While revenue averaged roughly $15,000 per year, annual operating expenses were closer to $120,000-$130,000 with property tax dollars being used to help cover the difference.
  • Council discussed grant opportunities, community fundraising efforts, long-term operating costs and staffing challenges, particularly retaining lifeguards. The main concern is whether a new facility could generate enough revenue through expanded uses to cover all operating costs and no longer require funding from reserves.
  • At this point, the City is moving into the planning phase for the future of the community pool. No final decisions have been made on whether to repair, replace, or redesign the facility, but the Council has directed staff to continue exploring options with engineers and the community.

City Council Updates & Correspondence

  • Council reviewed recommendations from the Utility Committee regarding natural gas service to the city’s power generation facilities. Their discussion focused on improving electric generation reliability, reducing reliance on diesel fuel, lowering operating and maintenance costs, and long-term energy security for the municipal utility. Council directed staff to explore a capital project connecting MidAmerican Energy natural gas service to the West Liberty Powerhouse and return with recommendations.
  • Council members shared positive feedback from residents regarding rapid cleanup efforts and power restoration following recent storms. Council thanked the Public Works Department, Electric Department, and all other city staff for their response efforts. Council members also shared the Community Closet program is currently helping local families prepare for the school year.
  • Upcoming topics for future Council Meetings include:
      • Additional EMS transition hearings
      • Budget-related public hearings
      • Annexation discussions
      • Utility infrastructure planning
      • Continued development of natural gas options for the municipal electric utility.

What the Council Approved

  • Council held a public hearing and approved Budget Amendment No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2026-27 (Vote passed 5-0)
  • Council approved hiring consultant Mike Kitzmiller to assist with police chief recruitment efforts as well as assessing staffing and long-term service options for the department. Staff emphasized the city continues to face challenges with officer recruitment, retention, and long-term staffing sustainability (Vote passed 5-0)
  • Council approved several agreements related to the transition of emergency medical services into the new West Liberty Area Fire Protection District structure, including amendments to existing 28E agreements and EMS service transition documents. (Vote passed 5-0)
  • Council approved an extension of the Army National Guard Child Care Support Initiative. Staff reported that the program is now becoming permanent and expanding nationwide. West Liberty remains the only city currently providing this service. (Vote passed 5-0)
  • Council approved a Municipal Electric Utility Reliability Plan required for compliance and system maintenance oversight. (Vote passed 5-0)
  • Council approved the purchase of a hydro-vac unit for the Electric Department. (Vote passed 5-0)
  • Council approved the purchase of an ultrasonic parts washer used for turbine injector maintenance. Electric Superintendent Cody Franklin explained that the parts washer could save the city tens of thousands of dollars by allowing staff to clean turbine injectors in-house rather than sending them out for service. (Vote passed 5-0)

Looking Ahead…

  • September 1st, 2026 | 6:30 p.m. Council Meeting

For more information, check out:
Pool Study Work Session – Work Session Video
City Council Meeting – City Council Video