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Kasson City park board approves aquatics manager, outlines pool repairs and equipment purchases
Summary
The Kasson City Park Board approved forwarding the appointment of David Baller as aquatics manager and discussed several pool repairs and investments — including a $12,900 joint purchase of a ball-field roller, umbrella replacements, pool-floor remediation and testing solar pool covers.
The Kasson City Park Board approved forwarding the appointment of David Baller as aquatics manager and discussed a package of repairs and equipment purchases for the Kasson Aquatic Center.
Board members said they met and reviewed Baller's resume and moved to send his appointment to council so training can begin before the 2026 season. A board member said, "David Baller is the aquatics manager for somewhere in 2026," and members approved the measure by voice vote.
The board also reported a joint-ventures purchase of an 8-foot, 5,700-pound ball-field roller from Midwest Machinery for $12,900. Board members said the machine will be stored at the city shop; the city and the school contribute $10,000 annually to the joint-ventures fund and Manville contributes $5,000 toward equipment purchases.
On pool maintenance, staff described storm damage that led to removing three canvas umbrellas; members noted a replacement canvas top costs roughly $2,300, while mesh tops are markedly cheaper and may be more wind-resistant. "I wouldn't mind getting some mesh ones," a board member said, proposing a small trial before committing to full replacement.
The board reviewed projects to restore pool surfaces and features. Staff recommended a localized repair product called perma rubber as a low-cost test for areas where concrete is pitting, estimating about $850 for primer and material versus tens of thousands for a full professional grind-and-recoat. Members agreed to test options in spring when temperatures permit.
Members also considered solar pool covers (bubble-wrap style) to reduce gas-heating costs. A staff member provided an estimate of about $3,300 for six 20-foot rolls and reels for the lap pool as a pilot, with nightly deployment handled by seasonal staff. Concerns centered on storage, handling and wind exposure; the board asked staff to investigate potential savings and logistics.
The board did not record individual roll-call votes for these operational items in the minutes, instead using voice votes for motions to approve personnel and routine items. The board agreed to continue planning and to bring final budget or council items forward as needed.
