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Brawley Council approves change order to pursue repairs at Leon Center pool; city estimates $600,000 local share
Summary
Council approved a change order with the pool contractor and authorized the city manager to finish negotiations while the city pursues insurance reimbursement; officials estimate the city's out-of-pocket share could be about $600,000 and aim to reopen in spring 2026.
The Brawley City Council on Tuesday approved a change order with California Pools to move forward on repairs at the Leon Center pool and authorized the city manager to finalize related negotiations, contingent on expected insurance funding.
Council members and city staff said the decision is intended to show the city's commitment to repairs while the insurer completes a coverage determination. City Manager (staff) told the council the work "remains on schedule for completion of the spring 2026," and that the insurer has "recognized this is likely a covered loss and has been funding the consultant's technical investigation." The city is preparing for a possible local shortfall and currently estimates a city share around $600,000.
The pool has been closed since August 2023 after complications during a refinishing project left the pool inoperable. City staff engaged technical experts and outside legal counsel funded by the city's insurer to investigate the cause and design a repair plan. City reports show plans have been submitted for permitting and contractor pricing finalized; the county public health department was confirmed to have received the submission and to be conducting an expedited review.
Resident Ms. Rubin, who addressed the council during the discussion, said she was "very concerned about the date" and asked whether the city would proceed if full insurance payments do not materialize. City Manager (staff) told the council the city is "optimistic that a significant portion of the repair costs will be covered under the City's policy" and pledged the city will return with a budget adjustment when the insurer's final determination is made.
Council members asked staff to coordinate with the local school district, which holds swim programs affected by the closure; staff said the district has been notified and is making accommodations because the expected completion is after the district's winter season. Councilmember comments stressed the community impact — particularly on high school swimmers and youth programs — and requested the city pursue contingency options and clearer timelines for construction start and completion.
The motion to approve the change order and allow the city manager to negotiate passed with a majority vote.
Looking ahead, staff said they will return with a full funding report and a proposed budget adjustment should the insurer deny or partially deny the claim. In the meantime, the city and school district continue coordinating swim program alternatives and the city is preparing a public update for distribution.
