MARION, Iowa — Marion City Council heard an update on a refined aquatic center proposal estimated to cost $26 million to $31 million. The proposal is still under review; the council has not approved a final design.
The current pool
The existing Marion Pool at Willowood Park opened in 1987. The city says recurring repairs to the aging facility have become costly, and pool revenue has covered about half its operating expenses in recent years. The city also says nearby homes and limited parking make it impractical to expand the pool at its current location.
Why the earlier plan paused
Last September, the council voted 6–1 to hold off on putting an earlier aquatics park proposal on the ballot. The plan was projected at nearly $40 million. City leaders cited its cost, a compressed timeline and survey results showing less than 60% support for a possible bond referendum.
What was presented this week
Marion Parks and Recreation Director, Seth Staashelm, told the council that the steering committee recommended proceeding with a refined plan.
The proposal calls for a roughly 14,000-square-foot facility near Munier Road. It includes a shallow-entry pool for children, three lap lanes, slides and a smaller lazy river. It would not include deep water at opening, though the design leaves room for future expansion…