response from GCRD

Hi Stacy, Thank you for reaching out and for your efforts to support bringing a community swimming pool back to Emmett. We appreciate your desire to share accurate information with the community. In 2019, the GCRD undertook a significant effort to evaluate the feasibility of rebuilding the community pool. Throughout that process, we made every effort to be transparent by regularly sharing project information, studies, cost estimates, meeting materials, and updates with the public. Much of that information can still be found here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1691627177584426/files/files Ultimately, the Board determined not to move forward with the project after it became clear there was not sufficient public support for the approximately $50 per household annual assessment increase that would have been necessary to help fund construction and long-term operations. Regarding the donations received for the pool project, I want to be clear that every dollar donated has remained in the designated pool fund and has not been used for any other purpose. Those funds continue to be held in a separate account, and the balance is reported as part of the GCRD's monthly financial statements presented at our public board meetings. I've attached a copy of the financial summary from our board agenda that includes the pool donation account. At this time, anyone wishing to contribute to the future pool project may do so by making a check payable to the Gem County Recreation District and noting "Swimming Pool Fund" in the memo line. Those funds will be deposited into the designated pool account. For additional context, in 2019 the estimated cost to construct a new outdoor pool, including locker rooms that met the building and accessibility codes in effect at the time, exceeded $2 million. Since the project did not move forward, the City of Emmett reclaimed the property, as the GCRD's interest in the site was limited to operating the pool. The City has since developed the site into the community splash pad. I hope this information is helpful in answering your questions and providing accurate information to the community. Thank you, Abra