Neosho staff proposes aquatic complex concept, targets ballot vote after design

City staff told the Neosho City Council during a work session that the city aims to develop a conceptual design for an aquatic complex and explore voter approval of a use tax to fund construction. Staff said the preferred site is near the golf course driving range and that the project scope would include aquatic facilities plus associated courts and amenities.

Staff recommended contracting an architectural designer to produce a conceptual drawing and then asking council to place a tax question before voters. When asked whether the tax would be a sales‑tax bump or a separate measure, staff said the remaining capacity on the combined drainage/parks sales tax (about eight cents) would likely be insufficient and the city would probably pursue a use tax for the project.

An initial cost estimate cited to council was between $7 million and $9 million for a facility that includes more than a basic pool. Staff emphasized that the figure is an early conceptual range; additional work on design, site planning and a nine‑ to twelve‑month preconstruction planning period would be required before bidding. Staff also suggested a fundraising campaign and potential corporate donations as part of a financing package.

Council members asked about timing. Staff said if council approves design work and the schedule aligns, conceptual drawings could be ready by January–February and an April ballot placement is feasible; however, staff cautioned that significant groundwork, public outreach and financing details would still be needed before construction could start.

No formal council vote occurred during the work session; staff will return with design costs, more detailed estimates and a recommended financing plan if council asks them to proceed.