Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Recreation Pool topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
North Mankato to close Spring Lake pool in 2026 while council weighs $2M–$5.5M repair options
Summary
Aquatics Coordinator Bromley told the council the Spring Lake pool liner has recurring holes worsened by ground shifting and 2024 flooding; staff presented three repair/renovation options ranging from about $2 million to $5.5 million, and the council directed the pool be closed in 2026 pending further analysis.
Aquatics and Recreation Coordinator Bromley reported to the council on Sept. 15 that the Spring Lake swim facility liner has developed holes that allow sand to enter the pool, straining the filtration system and preventing proper water turnover. She said shifting ground beneath the liner and the 2024 flooding worsened the sand base and the linerstability, and that past welding repairs have not held.
Bromley presented three options: (1) replace the liner and perform limited structural work beneath it (estimated about $2 million; pool closed for at least three-quarters of the season); (2) replace the liner and perform more extensive structural work, replace pipes and jet inlets and consider insulation beneath the liner (estimated $23 million; closed for three-quarters of the season and late reopening could complicate lifeguard hiring); and (3) undertake a full renovation with additional concrete work to improve resistance to groundwater movement (estimated $4.55.5 million; pool closed for a full year). Public Works Director Arnold said the City has an insurance claim and that insurance will pay $217,000; FEMA assistance is being pursued but not confirmed.
Council Member Peterson noted the original facility cost roughly $3.2 million and asked for more information about usage and operating costs. Coordinator Bromley reported annual visitation of about 50,000 and staff estimated annual operating costs of about $500,000 for a typical 7080-day season. After discussion, the council determined the swim facility would be closed in 2026 and directed staff to return with additional information to inform repair or renovation decisions.
No formal repair contract or funding commitment was made at the work session; insurance and potential FEMA funding remain outstanding and will affect the city's options and timing for any repairs.
