Council approves $1.18M amendment to upgrade Olympic pool pumps and filtration; total project budget set at $3.3M

Staff briefed council on the mechanical upgrades planned for the Olympic pool, including replacement of pumps that have been in service for 38 years, upgraded filters sized for higher flow and complete system redundancy so the pool can remain operable if one pump fails. "The pumps at the Olympic Pool have been in service for 38 years, and they are approaching the end of their life," project staff said.

The construction amendment to Leisure Pools Inc. covers $1,179,113.46 for labor, materials and contingency; staff said total project costs for the combined replastering and mechanical upgrades are budgeted at $3.3 million using Major Facility Maintenance funds and CIP savings. Work will begin upon notice to proceed, long‑lead equipment was ordered in July, construction is expected to run through September with system startup and plaster cure in October, and staff planned handover in November so the pool can resume operations.

Councilors asked about redundancy and spare‑parts strategy; staff said the new pump and filter sizing will permit operation on a single unit if necessary and that facility maintenance funds are set aside to cover future replacements; they also noted the county has previously increased MFM appropriations to smooth replacement cycles. The amendment and related budget revision were approved by the council (motion passed 6–0).