Summary OF Parks & Recreations Board Minutes

The following summaries provide a comprehensive overview of the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool project discussions and developments from 2020 to 2024, as recorded in the Parks & Recreation Board meeting minutes. These excerpts chronicle the ongoing efforts to address the aging pool’s challenges, including water loss issues, geotechnical concerns, and the exploration of renovation or replacement options.

The summaries highlight community engagement efforts, consultant hiring processes, and the evolution of plans for the pool’s future, offering insight into the complex decision-making process involving city officials, board members, and the public

Note: Full meeting minutes are available within The Timeline.

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 01/09/2020

Summary

• Request For Qualification (RFQ) is still in process; no updates at this time
• Per the community survey, seems the majority of the respondents wanted to keep the placement of the pool
• where it is
• 553 recruited respondents; 1500 collected through city channels
• Analyzed separately and then presented alongside in the document itself

 

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 09/10/2020

Summary

• Michelle suggested the Board consider forming a subcommittee to address the planning.
• Staff will begin the process by providing historical data on the pool. David requested financial data from the last five years.

 

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 10/08/2020

Summary

• Department Aquatics Manager Vonda Wooten provided an overview of the history of the pool and recent operational and financial information.
• She answered questions from the Board regarding the outdoor swimming pool.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 11/12/2020

Summary

• Jon Hetrick reported on ongoing efforts regarding the Oak Ridge Outdoor Swimming Pool. Aquatics Manager Vonda Wooten is preparing a presentation for the Board detailing various options for pool redevelopment and their associated costs, expected to be ready by the December Park Board meeting.
• During discussions, Dan Robbins sought input from ACAC members on the desired competition lane length for the pool. Harry King responded that they prefer a 50-meter by 25-yard competition area.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 12/10/2020

Summary

• Discussed future redevelopment possibilities presented by Aquatics Manager Vonda Wooten.
• Various options were evaluated, including their pros and cons, with examples of recent pool projects also highlighted.
• Board members engaged in a question-and-answer session with Vonda regarding these potential developments.

 

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 03/11/2021

Summary

• During the meeting, there was significant interest expressed regarding the outdoor pool planning.
• Aquatics Manager Vonda Wooten plans to develop a user survey for pool attendees, scheduled for review in May.
• The Board discussed clarifying the objectives of the Outdoor Swimming Pool item within the current Board Work Plan.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 05/13/2021

Summary

• User Survey Development: Aquatics Manager Vonda Wooten presented a draft of a user survey for pool attendees. The Board reviewed and provided feedback for its finalization and distribution during the upcoming pool season.
• Preparation Overview: Vonda also briefed the Board on the annual preparations required to open the outdoor pool.

• No specific actions were reported regarding the renovation or replacement of the outdoor swimming pool beyond planning stages.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 06/10/2021

Summary

• The pool has opened for the season.
• There are significant challenges with hiring enough lifeguards.
• There is also an issue with water loss.
• As a result of staffing shortages, hours at both the indoor and outdoor pool have been reduced.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 07/29/2021

Summary

• Staff liaison Jon Hetrick briefly discussed the informal survey conducted among pool users over the summer. A more formal, scientific survey is being developed.
• Lauren Gray, Communications Specialist for the City, discussed how the new survey will be developed and distributed in collaboration with a professional survey service.
• The new survey is intended to provide more scientifically developed information to guide the Board’s recommendation for the pool project.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 08/12/2021

Summary

• City Council Member’s Comments: Jim Dodson mentioned applying for a historical marker for the outdoor pool, indicating ongoing recognition and support from city officials.
• Public Comments – George Smith: Expressed the community’s interest in keeping the outdoor pool open and maintaining its current design, highlighting local sentiment and priorities regarding the pool’s future.

• Timeline for Outdoor Pool Discussion: Staff liaison Jon Hetrick provided a draft timeline aiming to recommend a course of action to the City Council by late 2021 or early 2022, underscoring ongoing planning and decision-making processes.
• Informal Survey: Hetrick updated the board on an informal survey conducted among pool users during the summer, suggesting community engagement in planning decisions.

• Discussion centered on the design and infrastructure needs of the outdoor pool, emphasizing the importance of these factors in budgeting for the project.
• Overall, the minutes reflect ongoing discussions and community interest in the future of the outdoor pool, with updates and planning activities aimed at informing future recommendations to the City Council

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 09/09/2021

Summary

• Jon Hetrick reported that a contract is in place to perform geotechnical testing at the pool, with results expected by the October meeting.
• There was mention of a potential delay in the next pool survey due to an unforeseen staffing issue.
• Hetrick also reported significant water loss testing results, indicating almost 16 inches of water lost in six days, which is greater than expected from evaporation

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 10/14/2021

Summary

• Mark Watson discussed the survey being planned for the pool project. He asked that the Board provide input on information to be gathered through the survey.
• Jon Hetrick reported that preparation work for the geotechnical testing has been completed, but the actual testing was delayed by the rain last week. It is expected that test results will be available to share with the Board at the November meeting.
• Jake Greear will set up a DropBox folder for the pool project to store information that has been presented to the Board about the project.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 11/11/2021

Summary

• Discussion of Pool Leaks: The board discussed ongoing leak issues at the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool.
• Suggested Inspection: Chris Melhorn suggested using a camera to inspect the drain pipes under the pool to identify any potential failures causing the leaks.
• Scheduled Inspection: Staff are tasked with scheduling this inspection work
• Initial Geotechnical Testing Results: Jon Hetrick provided an overview of geotechnical testing results. The limited scope of the initial testing indicated the presence of soft areas under the pool, which might be pathways for the water loss.
• The report recommended additional testing, specifically boring in certain areas, to gain more detailed subsurface information.
• Jon Hetrick is planning a meeting with Public Works engineers to discuss the report in detail and determine the necessity of further testing.
• Proposal for Funding: Jake Greear suggested that the board should recommend funding a contract with an aquatics design and engineering firm for the pool rebuild project.
• Motion Passed: Kelly Mccampbell made a motion to include funding for an aquatic facility consultant in the FY2023 Capital Improvements Program. Melissa McMahan seconded the motion, and it passed unanimously.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 12/09/2021

Summary

• Jake Greear reviewed the resolution passed in the previous month, recommending funding for an aquatic facility consultant in the FY2023 Capital Improvements Program budget.

• The Board discussed the need to hold a public input session before issuing a survey on the pool project. This session aims to inform the public about potential costs and design options.
• Clarification: It was emphasized that the meeting is about renovating and improving the pool, not closing it.
• Next Steps: Details for the public input session will be discussed further in the January Board meeting and finalized in February.

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 01/13/2022

Summary

• Public Input Session: The Board discussed holding a public input session on the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool project before issuing a survey.  The potential timing for the session was considered to be late February.
• Geotechnical Testing: Staff received follow-up information on the geotechnical testing performed on the pool shell. Additional boring was presented as an option in the report, but after discussions between the geotechnical testing firm and City staff, it was not recommended.
• Initial testing did not indicate concerns that would warrant the additional drilling through the pool shell
• Initial testing did not indicate concerns that would warrant additional drilling through the pool shell?  What where the findings that informed this decision?

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 03/10/2022

Summary

• Jon Hetrick reported no progress on planning a public input meeting for the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool project. Further planning will be discussed at the April Park Board meeting.
• City staff are reviewing a revised survey for the pool project, with plans to distribute it soon.
• Lifeguard staffing challenges continue; few returning guards are expected this summer. Recruitment efforts are ongoing, while preparations for pool reopening are underway.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 04/04/2022

Summary

• Jon Hetrick provided an update on a new pool survey awaiting approval from the City Manager.
• Plans for a public input session were discussed following the survey’s distribution.
• Adjustments to the pay scale for seasonal positions were noted, resulting in increased lifeguard and seasonal applicant numbers.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 05/12/2022

Summary

• Jon Hetrick updated the board on the new pool survey, currently ongoing for eight weeks.
• Planning for a public input session at the pool was discussed, aiming to visualize space and address concerns.
• The pool is preparing to open soon with sufficient lifeguards.
• A historical marker for the outdoor pool will be installed, with a tentative ribbon-cutting scheduled for May 26 at 4 PM.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 06/09/2022

Summary

• Jon Hetrick provided an update on recent incidents at Oak Ridge Swimming Pool, including a successful rescue operation.
• The City Council’s first reading of the budget allocated $125,000 for hiring an engineering firm to design a new pool. Approval awaited at the upcoming second reading.
• Final survey results pending; information to be shared once received.

 

 

 

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 07/28/2022

Summary

• The board received final survey results on the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool renovation project.
• Funding of $125,000 was secured for a pool design contract.
• Plans to finalize scope of work by fall were discussed, with board assistance in vetting.
• Public discussion on pool renovations was postponed until after hiring assistance for the project.
• Potential fundraising opportunities for pool improvements were considered.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 08/11/2022

Summary

• Jon Hetrick reported that he is preparing a draft scope of work for the design/engineering contract for the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool. This draft will be presented to the Board at the next meeting

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 09/08/2022

• The Board reviewed and discussed a draft outline for the Request For Qualifications (RFQ) for Engineering and Design.  Presentation by Jon Hetrick, Recreation & Parks Director.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 10/13/2022

• Request For Qualification (RFQ) Still in process with no updates available.
• Majority of respondents favor keeping the pool at its current location.
• 553 respondents were recruited, and 1500 responses were collected through city channels.
• Survey results were analyzed separately and presented together.

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 11/03/2022

Summary

• Seth Rogers, the new special projects coordinator, attended the meeting.
• Seth, Vonda, and Jon completed the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Oak Ridge Outdoor Aquatic Complex Renovation Engineering and Design Services.
• Jon distributed hard copies of the RFQ for review by the board members, requesting feedback by November 10.
• The budget for the project is set at $125,000 for the current fiscal year, with the expectation that unspent funds will roll over.
• A $5,000,000 request has been made in the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the project

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 01/12/2023

Summary

• RFQ Issued: A Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the Oak Ridge Swimming Pool was issued this week.
• Submission Deadline: The deadline for RFQ submissions is February 16.
• Once submissions are received, evaluations and negotiations will begin.
• The goal is to present to the city council by April.
• The aim is to have a contract in place by the end of the year.
• This project is expected to be a multi-year process

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 02/09/2023

Summary

• Five submittals were received for the Request For Qualifications (RFQ) for the outdoor pool design and engineering.
• A review committee selected the top three submittals for interviews scheduled for March 21st.
• There is a goal to present a contract to the City Council in May.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 03/09/2023

Summary

• Five submittals were received for the Request For Qualifications (RFQ) for the outdoor pool design and engineering.
• A review committee selected the top three submittals for interviews scheduled for March

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 04/13/2023

Summary

• Consultan Interviews conducted and top four firms ranked.
• Kimley-Horn selected due to prior familiarity with the project manager.
• Scope of work for the design phase received from Kimley-Horn.
• Awaiting approval of scope before evaluating fees.

• Michele Thornton emphasized the need for public involvement and transparency.
• Kimley-Horn committed to public input through studies and in-person meetings.
• A dedicated project website will be created for community updates.

• Discussion on possibilities for refurbishing or remodeling the current pool.
• Decision on specifics pending a geotechnical study and an assessment of existing conditions.
• Multiple options and cost estimates to be presented to the city and public.

• Anticipated that millions of dollars will be needed for the pool project.

• City pool set to open Memorial Day weekend with sufficient lifeguards for the outdoor pool. Additional hires needed to open both pools.
• Plan to present pool options to various community centers and groups.
• Commonwealth Senior Living Center expressed interest in providing input on outdoor pool planning and may host a meeting due to residents’ mobility challenges
• 21st.

• There is a goal to present a contract to the City Council in May

 

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 05/11/2023

Summary

• Approval of Kimley-Horn’s bid by City Council.
• Project kickoff on June 13th with meetings involving staff, stakeholders, and public.
• Kimley-Horn to gather input, create three concept plans, conduct surveys, and provide cost estimates.
• Exploration of funding sources beyond city funds.
• Design based on ADA and safety standards.
• Outdoor pool scheduled to open on Memorial Day weekend.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 06/08/2023

Summary

• The board selected a consultant for the outdoor pool project and began the process with community input meetings scheduled. The consultant will assess revenue potential and operational costs.
• There was also a discussion about potentially extending lap swim times at the pool, with plans to follow up on this in future meeting

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 07/20/2023

Summary

• Public input session at Oak Ridge Pool gathered 133 comment cards supporting keeping the pool as it is.
• Concerns raised about significant water infiltration under the pool, potentially leading to sinkhole development.
• Geotechnical testing by a firm from Knoxville confirmed water saturation issues under the pool.
• Consultants are compiling cost estimates and planning more public input sessions, including concept plan presentations.
• Decision to keep the pool’s current state remains popular among attendees.
• Future updates and reports on pool conditions will be posted on www.oakridgeoutdoorpool.com.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 08/10/2023

Summary

• A survey regarding the outdoor pool is ongoing and will close on August 19th.
• Plans include a Zoom meeting with a contractor to discuss concept plans for presentation in September.
• Noted increased attendance for lap swimming during specified hours.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 09/14/2023

Summary

• The outdoor pool has been closed since the last meeting.
• A survey regarding the pool has closed, with ongoing comments on the pool’s website.
• Geotechnical testing by GEOS has been conducted; results are expected in a few weeks.
• Future options for the pool depend on these test results, with geotechnical costs to be included in estimates.
• Next update on geotechnical testing expected at the next meeting.
• The outdoor pool, constructed in 1944 and spring-fed, holds 2.2 million gallons of water.
• Significant repairs and renovations have been conducted, including recent shell repairs in 2018 costing $400,000.
• Issues such as significant water leakage have been noted, with approximately 100,000 gallons lost daily due to structural issues.
• Annual maintenance includes pressure washing and painting due to the pool’s size and ongoing maintenance requirements.
• The outdoor pool serves around 30,000 people annually during its season (May to August).
• Gate revenue for 2023 was $100,000 against an operating budget of $300,000-$400,000.
• Efforts to increase revenue through events like movie nights are being considered.
• Staffing includes lifeguards paid between $13-$15 per hour, with plans to expand events if staffing levels increase.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 10/19/2023

 

Summary

• Received a report from a geotechnical firm regarding options for a rebuild, including a “shell within a shell” concept.
• Recently closed a survey and compiling results for concept planning.
• Concerns raised about compromised soil under the pool; core sampling showed saturation but no immediate risk.
• Planning for repairs likely involving concrete, with cost estimates to be presented to City Council for decision.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 11/09/2023

Summary

• Geotechnical report received; consultants presented three concepts for pool renovation expected by January, including cost estimates.
• Survey conducted to assess water drainage; positive results from coring, indicating no cavities or significant issues detected.
• Further coring planned to analyze rock content beneath pool area.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Meeting Summary (01/11/2024)
Summary

Concept Designs and Public Opinion:

• Three concept designs for Oak Ridge Pool received; all designs deemed very expensive.
• Public opinion: 460 out of 520 respondents favor changes to the pool; 50 respondents prefer maintaining it as is.
• Public’s top priorities: Concession stand, Slides and other amenities.
• Improved restrooms with better ADA compliance.

Design Options:

• Option A: Keep the pool the same; most costly due to ADA upgrades.
• Parking: Existing arrangement to remain mostly unchanged; additional parking at the top; designated bus and EMT parking.

Next Steps:

• Present designs to city council in a work session on Tuesday at 6 pm.
• Advisory Board members encouraged to observe the session.
• Placeholder of over $20 million in the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for the project; adjustments expected; projected start date after the upcoming summer season.
• Plan a public meeting, possibly at a school or in the Scarboro community, for further input and updates.

General Pool Project Timeline:

• Present designs, secure funding, and commence construction post-summer season.
• Groundbreaking anticipated with a minor annual cost increase.

Summary:

• Strong community interest in enhancing Oak Ridge Pool with new amenities and compliance upgrades.
• Significant financial considerations and planning required.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Meeting Summary (02/08/2024)
Summary

Public Input:

• Reviewed feedback on the pool’s future; 491 responses received.
• Key preferences: upgraded showers and restrooms, improved concessions.
• 52 respondents preferred no changes; 411 supported various modifications.

Pool Improvement Options:

• Option 1: Rebuild existing pool with new mechanical systems, locker rooms, additional parking, and separate bus parking. Estimated cost: $28,897,000.
• Option 2: Divide area into two pools: competition pool and recreational pool with lazy river and water slide. Estimated cost: $22,543,000.
• Option 3: Slightly smaller version of Option 2. Estimated cost: $21,943,000.

Next Steps:

• Present options at City Council work session on March 19th for further discussion and decision-making.
• City Manager to evaluate impact on city taxes and funding for other projects.

 

 

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 03/21/2024

Summary

• Presentation of Options: Options from a consultant were presented at a January City work session. A follow-up presentation will occur on March 26th to review these options again.
• Cost Concerns: Three options were presented, all with higher-than-expected costs. Further steps are currently undecided.
• Ongoing patching and repairing.
• Bathrooms have been repainted.
• Repainting ¼ to ½ of the pool surface.
• Preparing pumps and hiring lifeguards.
• The pool will be filled with water a few weeks before opening to ensure all systems are functional.

Recreation & Parks Board Minutes 04/11/2024

Summary