Frequently Asked Questions
Pool Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an operating budget for the pool?
Yes. Each year, the District reviews potential operations costs and updates the estimated operating budget using data from other regional pools. The levy that was instituted as part of the park district's creation was based on historical operating budgets for the original city pool and some room to grow. This means that the operations can be funded by the levy & programming fees. The levy was not pegged to the cost of BUILDING the pool though - this is why the district has to raise funds for construction.
Where will the pool be located?
On White Salmon Valley School District land near the middle/high school campus under a 50-year lease—chosen for size,
access, and proximity to school programs and safe walking routes.
What features will the pool include?
Phase 1 (current project):
• 8-lane pool with deep end and diving board
• Bathhouse, check-in, changing rooms
Future phases (funding dependent):
• Warm/therapy pool • Splash pad & play features • Community room
• 8-lane pool with deep end and diving board
• Bathhouse, check-in, changing rooms
Future phases (funding dependent):
• Warm/therapy pool • Splash pad & play features • Community room
Will the pool ever be covered?
The 2018 ballot measure specified a seasonal, outdoor pool.
Covering would add millions in cost. For context, Hood River’s pool costs about $1.4M/year to operate and ~60% is taxpayer-subsidized; our District doesn’t have a comparable tax base.
Also, RCO state grants require outdoor facilities. Adding a roof would require the District to repay those grants.
Covering would add millions in cost. For context, Hood River’s pool costs about $1.4M/year to operate and ~60% is taxpayer-subsidized; our District doesn’t have a comparable tax base.
Also, RCO state grants require outdoor facilities. Adding a roof would require the District to repay those grants.
How much will the pool cost & how is it funded?
The District uses a current cost estimate based on fully completed construction documents for planning and fundraising purposes. However, the final project cost will be established through a public, competitive bidding process, which reflects real-time market conditions and contractor pricing.
Capital: grants, donors, community fundraising, in-kind contributions.Operations post-opening: levy + user fees/program income.
When will the pool open?
The project is shovel-ready. After final funding and contract award, opening is estimated
12–18 months later.
Why has it taken time?
The levy was implemented based on potential operating costs, not construction costs. The District recives about $300,000 per year in funding - At $330,000 per year, it would take about 22 years to equal $7.2 million. Over that time, construction inflation would significantly increase the cost of the project — likely putting it in the $11–17 million range. This is why levy funding must be paired with grants and fundraising to build on a reasonable timeline. Since 2019 the District completed design/permitting and secured major
grants and gifts. We’re closing the remaining gap.
What is the Pool Metropolitan Park District?
A voter-approved municipal district (2018) to build, operate, and maintain a new community pool. Boundaries align
with the Klickitat County portion of the White Salmon Valley School District.
Do commissioners get paid?
No. Commissioners are unpaid volunteers.
How is the District funded?
A voter-approved levy funds operations and maintenance. Current rate ≈
$0.167 per $1,000 AV (2025). Capital is funded separately.
How can I help?
Donate • Volunteer • Share.
Short answer: NO!
Long answer: All commissioners on the board have waived any compensation. The Distirct’s bylaws do allow for compensation (by resolution only) of up to $128/day with a not to exceed value of $12,288/year but all commissioners are committed to working to get the pool built on a purely volunteer basis. The commissioners & other volunteers have volunteered uncountable hours in working towards building the pool.