Board asks voters for new pool

CASTALIA — Area residents could have a new place to swim if Margaretta Schools voters approve a levy this fall. The district placed a levy on the ballot asking for financial support from its community to construct a pool — also referred to as a natatorium by the district — and a fitness/multipurpose room. On Nov. 3, voters will see a 2.15-mill, 20-year bond issue for new money which, if approved, would generate $11 million over its lifespan. If approved, the owner of a $100,000 home can expect to pay $76 annually. If the levy is approved, the district plans to build the pool on its new pre-K-12 campus. A pool was not in the district's budget for the new campus after inflation ballooned the project's price tag, so officials are turning to the community to see if it wants the district to maintain a pool. Why build? The district already has a pool, located in its current high school/junior high building. But based on finances and the new school layout, the district said it would benefit from having the addition at the new campus. The district plans to move into its new pre-K-12 building in March. Once moved: • District administrative offices will move to the elementary school. The district also leased classrooms for North Point Educational Service Center and daycare and pre-K for Faith Church at the elementary school. The 10-year lease begins in summer 2027. • By spring 2028, everything from the middle and high school building will come down except for the Townsend Community School, Vo-Ag Building, the current fitness center and the stadium fieldhouse. The area will become additional parking for the stadium. The high school has had its natatorium for nearly seven decades, since 1959. The current pool is scheduled for demolition after the 2027-28 swim season, but a new pool would allow the district's swim and dive traditions to continue, according to the fact sheet. Renovating the current pool and getting it up to code financially exceeds the expense of building new, according to a fact sheet shared by district superintendent Ed Kurt. The estimated cost for the current pool, including repairs and meeting code, is more than $11 million, while a new pool would cost an estimated $8.6 million. If the district is approved for its $11 million ballot ask: • An estimated $8.6 million could go toward the pool • An estimated $1.4 million would be left for a fitness/multipurpose room. Other costs the district will incur include connecting current locker rooms and hallways, grading and restoring the site with grass and landscaping, furnishing and equipment like bleachers and fitness equipment, plus any contingencies, Kurt said. Also, operating the district under one roof provides possible cost efficiencies, according to the fact sheet. The potential build site for the pool offers ideal accommodations and amenities, according to the fact sheet. The pool and fitness/multipurpose room would be fully handicap accessible for students, staff, and visitors. The build location is also close to lockers, restrooms and concession stands. Pool programs The current pool supports the district and community through several programs. Current pool uses, according to the fact sheet, include the following: • Margaretta Schools and its students use the pool for aquatic teams and clubs, elementary and middle school incentives, swim lessons and fifth-grade orientation. • Partnered districts including Huron Schools, Perkins Schools and St. Mary Catholic School use the facility for their swim and dive teams. • Other than educational and school district sports use, the county Boy Scout troop uses it for its swim badge, the Margaretta Fire Department uses it for water rescue and safety training, multiple schools use it for lifeguard training and coaches and physical education teachers use it for CPR and lifeguarding. • The Erie County Sheriff's Office uses it for water safety training. • If funding is approved and a new pool is constructed, there are several programs the district plans to introduce, according to the fact sheet, including water aerobics, aqua jogging and open pool and swim times. Tour the site The district will host an open house that will include a partial tour of its preK-12 building. Community members can see the academic wings, cafeteria, gym and the potential build site for the pool and fitness/multipurpose room. The open house is scheduled for 1-4 p.m. on Oct. 24 at the new school site, 305 W. Lucas St., Castalia.