Keller ISD to pursue engineering review and repairs for natatorium as part of bond planning

Keller ISD administrators told trustees on July 23 they have purchased a vertical pool filter, identified leaks, and plan to contract an engineering firm to redesign the natatorium HVAC and dehumidification systems. That engineering work will inform bids and potential construction timing.

"We have purchased the filter...we're hopeful to bring this forward for approval of a purchase approval in August," Superintendent Dr. Wilson said, describing a plan to post engineering specifications for bid once RWB (the engineering firm) completes its report. A district procurement presentation asked trustees to approve purchases exceeding $25,000 for initial engineering and related pre‑construction work; trustees approved those purchases and staff said short‑term expenses can be reimbursed from bond proceeds if the relevant proposition passes.

CBAC members repeatedly singled out the natatorium as an example of an aging facility that "needs help," and said the committee recommended site, restroom and systems repairs as part of the package. Administration clarified that natatorium expenditures are budgeted in the district’s natatorium fund for maintenance and that the district will seek to minimize use of operating dollars for capital repairs when possible.

Board discussion covered whether natatorium work should be a separate proposition; administration said facility‑specific proposals such as a natatorium or stadium‑adjacent projects may need separate ballot propositions under bond counsel guidance. The board approved the requested purchases to advance immediate engineering and evaluation work.