What will happen to the current pool?

Once the new pool opens, the current one will be removed. A community process will then determine how that space is used, and the final decision will rest with City Council. Because the current pool sits on dedicated parkland, the site must remain part of the park and cannot be sold or developed for other uses.

What will happen to the Community Center?

The future of the existing Community Center will be decided by City Council. There are many options they could explore to serve the community.

I thought the Library was receiving more funding?

To keep the overall project affordable for taxpayers, the Council prioritized the most urgent needs, which were the deteriorating aquatic and community centers. However, the Library will receive $4.5 million as part of this bond, which will be used towards entry improvements, bathroom renovations, and an expansion of the children’s area.

How big will the lap pool be?

We’re planning a 25-meter stretch pool with 8–12 lanes, ample deck and spectator space. A wall will divide the competition pool from the recreation pool, which will allow swim meets and community programs to run simultaneously. A 50-meter pool was considered, but ruled out due to much higher construction and maintenance costs, as well as less flexible day-to-day use.

Did the City consider renovating instead of rebuilding?

Yes. A 2019 study found that renovation costs were nearly equal to new construction. City Council chose to build new because a modern, combined facility would be more efficient, accessible, and functional. The architect confirmed that extensive renovation would result in compromised layouts, poor accessibility, and ongoing inefficiencies, making new construction the most cost-effective long-term investment.

Will the new facility host community events or performances?

Yes, there will be flexible spaces, such as a gym and multipurpose rooms, that can host events, fundraisers, and performances. While there won’t be a traditional auditorium, the design emphasizes adaptable areas for gatherings of all kinds.

How will the new facility be more efficient?

The new complex will have a smaller footprint than the combined existing buildings but will use space far more efficiently. By combining the aquatic and community centers, the City can consolidate staffing, reduce costs, and improve functionality. The design includes separate leisure and lap pools, flexible multi-use rooms, and shared fitness areas. Operational savings will allow the City to fund a dedicated maintenance position within the current parks budget — without needing new tax dollars.

How will kids and families get to the Miller Property?

The new recreation center will be located next to Joe Dancer Park, where more than 800 families already participate in youth sports. The City and Yamhill County transit agencies will work together to ensure good access. Updates to the City’s Transportation System Plan will also address pedestrian, bike, and transit options for reaching the site.

What will the fees look like at the new facility?

Fee structures will ultimately be set by City Council. The current recommendation is increasing cost recovery from 30% to around 40% to help cover maintenance and programming. This can be achieved through slightly higher non-resident fees, updated partner agreements, and higher overall usage. A better, more accessible facility means more families will stay in town for recreation, helping offset operating costs.

How will the project be financed?

The bond will be issued in two phases: $50 million in 2026 and $48.5 million in 2028. This will align with construction needs and manage the tax impact. Both bonds will run for 20 years, with an estimated tax rate of $1.79 per $1,000 of assessed value through 2048 (an increase of $0.95 from the current rate).

How were cost estimates developed?

Cost projections are based on a similar facility built in Redmond, Oregon, with an added 25% contingency to account for inflation and local factors. The plan also includes the cost of purchasing the Miller Property from McMinnville Water and Light. To ensure transparency, a Citizen Oversight Committee will monitor how bond funds are spent.

Why haven’t our existing facilities been maintained?

In 2012–13, City Council approved budget cuts that reduced repair and maintenance funding for the Aquatic Center by nearly 30% and for the Community Center by 25%. The City then shifted to a “run-to-fail” approach, fixing issues only when major problems arose. Continued budget constraints over the years prevented proactive maintenance, leading to the condition we see today.

When will the new recreation facility open?

If site work begins in late 2026 or early 2027, construction could take about 18 months. That means McMinnville residents could be swimming in the new pools by mid to late 2028. As with all major projects, this timeline is an estimate and may shift slightly.