City of Blackfoot to put $5 million swimming pool bond on ballot

The iconic golden dome of Blackfoot is looking for a remodel. The City Council approved a ballot question Tuesday night that will ask taxpayers to approve a $5 million bond to renovate the Blackfoot municipal swimming pool.

The building is ending its 40-year life cycle of the current design — it first opened back in 1973. Last year, the city looked at the physical building and evaluated the aquatics and electrical systems. After looking at different options, the city decided it would be a good idea to renovate the building and add some new features.

“Possibly a new waterslide, depending on how the design went. They would have an infant pool area, which our current area is very small. then additional features for children, such as waterfall features, indoor splash pad type things,” Holly Powell, the city’s treasurer said.

If the $5 million bond is approved, it would increase taxes for Blackfoot homeowners.

Here are the total costs for the pool’s replacement:

Base cost – $3.4M Pool and slide – $0.9M Deck – $0.3M Soft costs – $0.4M

The bond will be on the May 16 ballot this year.

Ballot question: