Friends of the Pool ask for public input

DAYTON- A dedicated group of swimming and water safety enthusiasts are asking for help as planning for a new swimming pool in Dayton enters a critical phase.

The Friends of the Pool (Friends) has contracted with Schemata Workshop, Seattle (architects), and Ballard King & Associates LTD, Highlands Ranch, CO (recreational facility planning and operation consultants). The firms will assist with data collection, development of a community assessment, and designs for a new facility. They will also help facilitate the development of a Metropolitan Parks and Recreation District (MPD) to operate and maintain a new facility in perpetuity.

These professionals are experienced in assisting rural communities in meeting their recreational needs. The Friends successfully raised funds for this work through local fundraising efforts and grants awarded from regional non-profit organizations.

Everyone is encouraged to complete the survey available by using the QR code or log in directly to http://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Dayton/FP.

The survey is simple and takes less than five minutes to complete. The information you provide will help the planning team and consultants develop a strategy and forward-looking plan to meet the needs of our community.

The survey is open until June 10, 2022. Please take a moment and tell the team what you want.

The immediate need, with the support of the Columbia County Commissioners and voters, is to place a measure on the November 8, 2022, ballot to create an MPD. At least 411 signatures of registered voters are required by August 1, 2022.

The group is working closely with Garfield Parks & Recreation District Board who successfully secured State and legislative funding to upgrade their outdoor pool.

The Friends' goal is to be open, transparent, and share each step of this process with our community. The team is open to new members who would like to help bring a new pool to Dayton, please contact Deb Hays at the City of Dayton, at (509) 382-2361.