Corvallis board approves consolidated actions and discusses Osborne pool repairs after state award of $4.3 million

Board members voted March 5 to approve the consolidated action items as presented and discussed next steps for the Osborne pool structural‑repair project after district staff outlined available funds and the scope of work.

Facilities staff reported the district has secured $4.3 million from the state legislature toward Osborne repairs. Additional contributions were mentioned in the discussion — including $500,000 and smaller amounts from local entities — but comments during the meeting were inconsistent about which entity provided specific sums; staff acknowledged further clarity is needed and said they would update the district web page and continue coordination with the city of Corvallis, Benton County and other partners.

District facilities staff said the current funding package is sufficient for a limited‑scope effort to reopen the indoor pool for community use, focusing on roof structural repairs, a new pool liner and other essential deferred maintenance needed to operate safely. Staff emphasized that the allocated funds are not sufficient to complete all long‑term maintenance identified in a facilities assessment and that additional funding and an operational plan will be required to sustain the facility over time.

Because aquatics work requires specialized experience, staff recommended prequalifying bidders with aquatics experience before issuing a hard bid; cost estimates and design‑development documents are expected back before the contractor solicitation is advertised. The district aims to award a contract at the June board meeting and indicated an 18‑month construction period is likely. Staff said they will prioritize keeping the outdoor pool open during summer activity months while construction occurs.

The board expressed appreciation for staff and for legislative champions who helped secure state funds, and directed staff to continue coordination with the city on ongoing operations and capital planning.

Motion: board moved to adopt consolidated action items as submitted (mover: Sammy; second: Judah). Roll call: Sammy (aye), Chris (aye), Shauna (aye), Bernie (aye), Judah (aye), Therese (aye), Chair (aye). Motion passed.