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Rolla mayor flags large repair needs, operating losses at The Centre; council weighs possible small sales tax
Summary
Mayor Louis J. Magdits IV told the council that The Centre’s natatorium and SplashZone are operating at substantial losses and that about $700,000 in capital repairs are needed; he outlined a timeline to consider a small sales tax on the April ballot and recommended hiring planning and design consultants.
Mayor Louis J. Magdits IV updated the council on The Centre’s shift from a traditional recreation center to a medically integrated facility and said The Centre is the only certified medical recreational facility in Missouri. He reported that the Natatorium is operating at an annual deficit of roughly $50,000 to $300,000 and that SplashZone lost a similar amount over a three‑month period. The mayor also said the facility faces about $700,000 in capital‑expenditure repairs.
Magdits said the administration is considering asking voters to approve a small sales tax to fund necessary repairs and modifications; ballot language would need to be finalized by January 2026 for placement on an April election. He said the timeline would allow 60–90 days for public input and community education. The mayor recommended the city hire an architecture and planning feasibility firm that specializes in recreation centers to develop options and cost estimates.
Several members of the public who spoke during citizen communication said they support The Centre and sought clarification on aspects of the mayor’s proposal. The council discussed timing and next steps but took no formal vote on a tax question at the meeting.
If the council proceeds, administration will return with proposed ballot language, cost estimates from consultants and recommended next steps. The council adjourned at 10:01 p.m.
