Milton-Freewater moves to repair aquatic center following winter maintenance lapses

MILTON-FREEWATER – City officials are moving to shore up the Joe Humbert Family Aquatic Center following the discovery of significant maintenance lapses and mechanical failures during the winter off-season.

Interim City Manager Tim Johnson is scheduled to present a comprehensive update on winterization and repair efforts at the Milton-Freewater City Council meeting Monday. The 7 p.m. session will be held in the Albee Room of the Milton-Freewater City Library at 8 SW Eighth Avenue.

The push for repairs began in February after staff identified a leaking valve that was flooding service pits and threatening the mechanical room. Further inspections revealed that relatively new heaters had been left uncovered and exposed to the elements, while crucial equipment like flow meters and pressure gauges were in disrepair.

To address the issues, Johnson consulted WMS Aquatics, an Ellensburg-based specialist. Proposed repairs, estimated to cost under $10,000, include replacing the faulty valves, installing new Stenner pumps, and restoring oxidation-damaged water slides.

Under a new operational strategy, oversight of the pool’s pumps and piping will shift to the city’s water and wastewater divisions. Johnson noted that original 1996 procedure manuals suggest the filtration system should remain active throughout the winter to reduce the high cost of annually draining and refilling the pool.

The aquatic facility is currently on track to begin seasonal filling in early May, with staff certifications and final opening protocols slated for later that month.

File photo of the Joe Humbert Family Aquatic Center

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Elkhorn Media Group