Does This Texas City Have The Solution For Lubbock’s City Pool Issue?

It is a little ironic that Lubbock's Splash Pads are set to open on a day where we could see highs in the low 80's and thunderstorms throughout the day, but at least the splash pads are finally completed and ready to go for when people do want to beat the heat.

Of course many are still upset about the lack of city pools for families and children around Lubbock. It's an issue that came up last summer and again this summer and this year families seem to be more outspoken on both social media and at council meetings.

During the Mayor's race, the issue of an aquatic center came up numerous times. While then a candidate, Lubbock Mayor Mark McBrayer said the city should possibly look into a private/public partnership and a facility that is used more than just in the summer. Of course the other side of this is the cost of such a facility or two. How many taxpayers are willing to vote for a tax increase right now for an aquatic center.

Still the debate continues, and one Texas city may offer a blue print for what Lubbock should do. This past Saturday, I drove to Midland and while I was wrapping things up and heading home I found myself driving by the Doug Russell Pool in Midland.

Midland has both splash pads and two swimming pools/aquatic centers. The aquatic centers are like mini-water parks. And while they are city owned and run, they aren't free. In addition to the tax dollars for upkeep, people pay $5 dollars for get in. They also have different "family time" swims two different sessions for regular swim during the day. You can read more about them here.

The pools look great and at least the Doug Russell pool was packed on Saturday. Of course, these aren't indoor/outdoor facilities. Those would cost even more money.

But is this a possible blue print for Lubbock moving forward? Nicer pools, but not as many and they are built like mini water parks. And the big question, should citizens be asked to pay a fee when entering? A simple $5 or $10 dollar charge per kid would help with upkeep and wear and tear.

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Personally, I like the idea of charging admission.