Into the Deep End: Proposition 1 and the Shoreline Pool

David Mendez/The Osprey

By David Mendez

The Osprey

On Nov. 3, Shoreline voters will decide whether or not to finance a new community pool. Supporters think it lays a foundation for the future. Opponents say they can't bear another tax increase.

Shoreline is a city of neighborhoods: 14 neighborhoods, spread across 6 miles, spanning Interstate 5 and two state highways. There are two libraries, a handful of commercial hubs, light rail stations, transit stops and too many parks to list.

One thing it doesn’t have is a public pool — not anymore, anyway. And it’s never really had a town center.

Proposition 1, if approved by voters in the Nov. 3 general election, might change both of those facts.

What you need to know

Shoreline’s Proposition 1, if approved, would create a tax district with the purpose of paying for and maintaining a new public pool facility in the city.

Prop. 1 would create a special tax district — a Metropolitan Park District — intended to build and operate a new pool facility and, down the road, a new recreation center or parks in Shoreline.

If approved, the MPD would add an initial property tax levy of $0.55 per $1,000 of a property’s estimated value — or $550 annually on a $1 million home.

The city wants to finance $100,000,000 for the project. That would finalize purchasing the land, pay for soft costs (including a final design) and building the aquatic center. MPD tax revenue would also pay for facility maintenance and operations.

Prop. 1 is intended to fund a replacement for the city’s previous pool, which closed for good in 2020 at nearly 50 years old. It’s Shoreline’s second attempt to finance a pool in the last 10 years, and city leaders are hoping that voters will accept that it’s smaller in scope than the previous plan. 

The construction plan leaves room for the city to build out the property with another community space, like a park or a new recreation center, at a place reasonably accessible from all across the city. If all goes according to plan, it would mean a new civic center and hub of activity to draw folks to Shoreline.

The problem is the price tag, and the property tax that would follow. Shoreline plans to finance $100 million to get the job done, including paying off the debt on the land, completing the aquatic center’s design, then building the whole thing. But the property tax wouldn’t end when the center is built; it’s expected to last in perpetuity — or at least until its funding mechanism, a metropolitan park district, is dissolved.

Some opponents to the proposition say they’d be OK with the pool if it simply cost less. But supporters worry that this may be the city’s last bite at the apple.

“My personal opinion is, I think the city’s done a lot of work. And I think this is our shot,” said Susie McDowell, a pool proponent and long-time local high school swim coach. “If it doesn’t happen, it’s not happening.”

Continue reading here:

• How we got here

• Proposition 1 and the numbers

• Too much money, not enough return?

• Controlling destinies

• The time is now

• Where can I drop off my ballot?

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Setting the Record Straight: A Fact-Based Look at Shoreline Proposition 1

Aquatic Center Design

Setting the Record Straight: A Fact-Based Look at Shoreline Proposition 1

By the Prop 1 – Pro Statement Writers
- Krishnakant Nammi - Susie McDowell - Buddy Smith

Calling Shoreline’s Proposition 1 a “luxury pool” makes for a provocative headline, but it obscures the real question before voters: Does a growing city of more than 60,000 residents believe a public pool is basic community infrastructure worthy of investment?

Our community has spent years investigating how to replace our municipal pool that closed in 2020. The proposed facility will include an eight-lane lap pool, recreation pool, warm hydrotherapy pool, diving area, universal changing rooms, classrooms, and community spaces.

These are not “luxury” amenities. They support swim lessons, water safety, school and community athletics, exercise, rehabilitation, senior fitness, and programming for residents with different physical abilities.

To ensure everyone can make an informed decision on the upcoming ballot, let's look at the real facts behind the concerns raised.

Are there "significant risks" with this project?

The Fact: The City never stated that there are significant risks with this project. A review of project details on the Shoreline City Council Staff Report for Action on Resolution No. 562 reveals the financial plan is transparent, structurally sound, and operating costs are clearly built into the proposal from the start. 

Page 8b-1 explicitly states, “revenues generated by the MPD and pool facility user fees are anticipated to cover all expenses related to constructing and operating the pool facility.” Page 8b-6 discusses the 66% operational cost-recovery model designed to keep the pool accessible and affordable for Shoreline residents.

Public infrastructure like roads, libraries, and parks costs money to operate. Prop 1 would create a Metropolitan Park District (MPD) structured to provide ongoing funding for the construction, operation, and maintenance of the pool. This is a fiscally responsible way to fund the pool long-term. 

Typical of a public pool facility, user fees and other facility revenues will cover approximately 66% of the operating and maintenance costs. These facts mean that taxpayers aren’t writing a blank check; rather, the people who use the pool are contributing a significant portion of the operating costs.

Could interest rates on bonds force the cost of servicing the bonds, and thereby tax rates, to “increase dramatically”?

The Fact: The tax rate has a strict legal cap. By Washington state law, an MPD cannot charge more than $0.75 per $1,000 of assessed property value. The City expects the initial property tax rate to be $0.55 per $1,000. While the exact starting rate depends on market conditions when bonds are sold in late 2027, it cannot legally cross that $0.75 line. Just like a fixed rate mortgage, once the bonds are sold, the interest rate for the city can never increase. You can read the details on Slide #3 of the city’s official legislative presentation for Shoreline Resolution No. 562. Best of all, the board setting this tax rate is our elected City Council, who answer directly to voters during every single election.

Does the measure add 33% to city property taxes and increase total property taxes by approximately 5.5% to 7.5%?

The Fact: Your city tax is only a small fraction of your total property tax bill, which also includes schools, county services, and EMS. When you look at your total overall property tax bill, the pool adds a 5.5% overall increase. For a median Shoreline home, this works out to about $35 a month. You can see exactly where your tax dollars go by typing your address into the online King County Assessor Property Viewer. 33% is an alarmist number that is calculated based on the increase in the city’s share of the overall tax bill.

The cost of waiting is higher than the cost of building. Some people question whether now is the “right time.” The right time was years ago. Every year we wait, construction costs rise, another cohort of kids grows up without nearby swim lessons, and Shoreline residents have to leave our city to swim.

Can the city address its projected deficits, fund essential obligations (including sidewalks, public safety, and existing park measures), and successfully raise taxes further to pay for future public school projects?

The Fact: The City of Shoreline and Municipal Parks District (MPD) will be completely separate financial entities. City budget shortfalls are a separate, state-wide structural issue. State law caps regular city property tax revenue increases at 1% per year, but the cost of running a city rises much faster with inflation. Because of this, Shoreline faces general operating deficits starting as early as 2028 when the current general levy lid lift expires. This challenge faces almost every city in our state, and the City Council will likely ask voters for a routine levy lid lift renewal in 2028 to fix it. The pool project has its own dedicated, voter-approved funding source via the MPD and will not affect or be affected by the city's general operating budget.

With the project at only approximately 10% designed, is the cost estimate sufficiently reliable?

The Fact: "Only 10% designed" is exactly how responsible public projects work. No city spends millions of taxpayer dollars fully designing a building before voters have decided whether to fund it. Early stage estimates are standard practice for ballot measures, and Shoreline’s pool estimates are built on the highest-quality data currently available. If high inflation or changing construction costs do hit the project, the city has immediate safety valves in place. The MPD can modify the building design, adjust user fees, or implement operational cost-cutting measures to keep the budget strictly balanced.

Will vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities get no tax relief?

The Fact: Relief is built in for those who qualify for county relief programs. While state law does not allow an automatic deduction on this specific type of voter-approved tax, protection exists for low-income seniors and disabled residents who already have their property values frozen by the county. If your home's value is frozen, your pool tax will be calculated using that lower, frozen value and not today's higher market prices.

Seniors and people with disabilities rely on warm water pools for low-impact exercise and therapy, and this proposed pool is intentionally designed for that accessibility.

Should we just use nearby pools instead?

The Fact: “Use the neighbor’s pools” isn’t a plan. Neighboring pools are already completely full. Relying on other cities to serve Shoreline’s 60,000 residents is not a realistic strategy. Pools in Edmonds, Lynnwood, and Mountlake Terrace are aging and crowded, and their swim lesson slots fill up within minutes during online registration for Shoreline residents. Our local high school swim teams currently have no public pool in Shoreline to practice in. Shoreline children who don’t have the resources for private clubs have no place to learn how to swim, putting them at higher risk of drowning in Washington’s plentiful natural waters. Let's build an easily accessible public pool where all of our children can learn to thrive.

Were public-private partnerships fully explored?

The Fact: Yes. The idea of a regional or private partnership isn't new. In 2023, Shoreline joined a North King County regional aquatic feasibility study to look at building a joint facility with neighboring jurisdictions. Unsurprisingly, every city wanted the pool built in their own backyard, and a regional agreement could not be reached. The city has studied this for years, and Proposition 1 is the direct result of that work. Additionally, this local project is eligible for a $5 million grant from the King County Parks Levy.

Choosing the Community We Want to Be

Prop 1 is fundamentally about what kind of community Shoreline wants to be. Take a moment and think about the city we want to leave to our children and grandchildren.

In 1968, local voters passed a Forward Thrust bond measure that built 17 public pools across our region, including Shoreline's original municipal pool. That single investment gave our community a shared place for swim lessons, exercise, and family memories for nearly 50 years. Now, it is our turn to build a legacy for the next generation.

On November 3rd, we urge you to join your neighbors in voting yes on Proposition 1. This is a long term investment in swim safety, senior fitness, rehabilitation, recreation and community infrastructure. Shoreline has waited long enough. Let Shoreline Swim! Learn more: https://letshorelineswim.org/

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Chris Roberts: Why I am voting Yes on Proposition 1

By Chris Roberts

I was a fish growing up. Every summer, once my neighborhood pool opened, I would spend hours in the water. As I grew older, I became a junior lifeguard, and my first real job was lifeguarding. I taught swim lessons, coached swim teams, and eventually certified as an American Red Cross lifeguard trainer.

The pool was my happy place.

Years later, as a parent, I see access to community aquatics through different lenses. My spouse and I knew how essential it was for our child to learn water safety. While we were fortunate enough to afford a YMCA membership, the Y’s pool is small (4 lanes) and frequently had long waitlists for lessons. I know many families in our city lack even that option.

Shoreline’s original pool was built under the 1968 Forward Thrust bond. Built with an expected 30-to-40-year lifespan, these aging facilities are well past their service life, and critical replacement parts are no longer manufactured. Neighboring communities like Mountlake Terrace and Edmonds face similar challenges with their pools, while Lynnwood’s facility operates near capacity. Shoreline families need more choices and shouldn't have to leave their own city or sit on endless waitlists just to learn to swim.

For years, Shoreline residents have asked us for a modern community pool—one that accommodates Shorecrest and Shorewood high school swim teams, offers low-impact exercise for seniors, and runs simultaneous swim lessons and lap swimming.

Over the last few years, the City Council evaluated how to make this vision a reality. We worked closely with community members, engineers, and financial experts to design a facility that meets Shoreline’s needs efficiently. We recommended forming a Metropolitan Park District (MPD), governed directly by your City Council, because it provides a dedicated, sustainable revenue stream not just to build the pool, but to maintain and operate it long-term so it does not fall into disrepair. We also directed staff to aggressively pursue regional grants to lower the burden on local taxpayers.

For a median-valued Shoreline home ($831,000), the estimated cost is about $35 per month. While state law currently limits automatic senior property tax exemptions for MPDs, I am actively working with our state legislators to fix that rule so our low-income seniors receive the tax relief they deserve.

Shoreline has waited decades for a true community pool. I want the next generation of Shoreline kids to grow up with that same "happy place" I had— a place to learn to swim, to gain confidence in the water, and to make lifelong memories right here in our own neighborhood. Please vote Yes!

- Chris Roberts serves as a member of the Shoreline City Council.

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Shoreline Proposition 1: Is This the Right Time to Finance $100 Million for a Luxury Pool?

Jeff Hays is part of the committee of three, chosen to write the Con statement for the voters pamphlet on Shoreline Prop 1

Many residents are rightfully questioning the creation of a new tax district and a permanent overall tax increase of 5.5% to 7.5% to finance $100 million in new debt for the construction and operation of a city-run pool. The City of Shoreline acknowledges that this initiative carries significant risks and yet placed the measure on the ballot anyway.

Financial and Taxpayer Risks

Interest-rate risk

Local and national news are dominated by concerns about rising interest rates and increasing debt costs. The City plans to issue bonds for pool construction in late 2027. If interest rates are higher than currently projected, the cost of servicing the debt over the next 20 years will increase dramatically. This could require the MPD to raise its tax rate beyond the initial proposed rate.

Rising property taxes and taxpayer fatigue

The proposition would add at least 33% to current city property taxes and increase total property taxes by approximately 5.5% to 7.5%. Property taxes in Shoreline have already increased much faster than inflation over the past eight years and are expected to continue rising.

Furthermore, the City is forecasting significant operating deficits by 2030. The City also plans to seek approval for another levy-lid lift (tax increase) in 2028—the same year the new MPD taxes would begin.

This raises an important question: Will the city be able to address its projected deficits, fund essential obligations, including sidewalks, public safety, existing park measures and successfully raise taxes further to pay for future public school projects?

Construction and Operating-Cost Risks

The $100 million construction estimate

The City’s current estimate for the pool is $100 million, or more than $1,500 for every Shoreline resident. However, the project is only approximately 10% designed. At this early stage, the cost estimate may not be sufficiently reliable. Continued inflation, changing construction costs, and design revisions could cause the final price to easily exceed $100 million. It is not too late to pause and find a viable solution that makes more sense.

Operating and maintenance costs

The City projects that operating and maintaining the pool will cost nearly $4.4 million annually on average during the first five years. If inflation or other factors push these costs above projections, the City may need to increase user fees, the MPD tax rate, or a combination of both.

Equity Concerns

The financial burden would not fall only on property owners. Those least able to absorb higher costs could be affected most severely. Property owners would pay the tax directly. Landlords will likely pass the increased cost on to renters through higher rent. Low-income seniors and people with disabilities will also be required to pay the new MPD taxes.

Some residents note that the new taxes could more than double what they currently pay in city taxes.

Other Aquatic Options

Shoreline residents currently have access to public pools in neighboring jurisdictions. The $100,000,000 question is: does the city of Shoreline need to be in the pool business? Edmonds, Lynnwood, Mountlake Terrace, and North Seattle all have viable options that charge daily access fees similar to those projected for the proposed Shoreline pool. Private options are also available, including the McMenamins Swimming Pool in Bothell and the Dale Turner YMCA.

These options allow Shoreline residents who want pool access to attain it for generally what it would cost them to do so with a new Shoreline pool, but without burdening all taxpayers with the proposed huge new tax obligation.

A Possible Public-Private Partnership

Alternatively, the City would be wise to further explore a public-private partnership with organizations like the YMCA, which have extensive experience developing and managing recreational facilities. Working with these organizations could include offering vouchers to aid in providing additional programming or staff support. Several Washington cities have successfully used public-private partnerships to provide recreation facilities while sharing development, operating, and financial responsibilities.

Conclusion

Everyone appreciates the value of added amenities and recreational facilities. This is not an argument against recreation or community pools; it is an argument for being fiscally responsible and keeping Shoreline affordable.

The City has more pressing priorities that should be addressed before taking on a new, long-term obligation. Proposition 1 involves substantial debt, uncertain interest and construction costs, ongoing operating expenses, and a permanent increase in property taxes. Sensible Shoreline voters should understand that Proposition 1 is too costly and financially risky at this time.

For more information, please visit our website at: shorelineprop1.com

-Shoreline Citizens for Responsible Spending.

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Shoreline Prop 1 would fund a new pool for Shoreline - city information sessions scheduled on Zoom

Old Shoreline Pool October 2022

On June 1, the Shoreline City Council adopted Resolution No. 562. The resolution places Shoreline Proposition 1 on the November 3 general election ballot to create the Shoreline Metropolitan Park District (MPD).

If approved by Shoreline voters, Proposition 1 would create the Shoreline MPD, which would enable the City to build and operate a pool facility with financing from Shoreline MPD property tax revenue

You can learn more about Shoreline Proposition 1 here

City staff will provide a factual presentation and answer questions at six upcoming events.

The Zoom meeting dates are:

• Wednesday, September 23 – 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, September 25 – 11:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, September 30 – 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday, October 1 – 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, October 6 – 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, October 8 – 11:30 a.m.

Follow the link below or call the number to join:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87011115482

Phone: 1-253-205-0468

Meeting ID: 870 1111 5482

The old Shoreline Pool was past its useful life, although staff kept it looking good. Parts would regularly break. New parts were not being manufactured, so staff had to search the U.S. to find and purchase used parts.

Finally the decision was made to remove the pool entirely. The pool has been replaced by a large picnic pavilion which is available for rental or for casual use.

Now Shoreline has no public pool but two private pools - one specially for children. Mountlake Terrace has a pool but they are facing the same problem as Shoreline - an aging pool and no source for parts.

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Informational sessions on Shoreline Proposition 1

On June 1, 2026 the Shoreline City Council adopted Resolution No. 562. 

The resolution places Shoreline Proposition 1 on the November 3 general election ballot to create the Shoreline Metropolitan Park District (MPD). 

If approved by Shoreline voters, Proposition 1 would create the Shoreline MPD, which would enable the City to build and operate a pool facility with financing from Shoreline MPD property tax revenue.

You can learn more about Shoreline Proposition 1 HERE.

City staff will provide a factual presentation and answer questions at 12 upcoming events.
The Zoom meeting dates are:

• Tuesday, September 1 - 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday, September 3 - 7:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, September 9 - 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, September 10 - 12:00 p.m.
• Monday, September 14 - 12:30 p.m.
• Tuesday, September 15 - 7:00 p.m.
• Wednesday, September 23 - 7:00 p.m.
• Friday, September 25 - 11:30 a.m.
• Wednesday, September 30 - 12:00 p.m.
• Thursday, October 1 - 7:00 p.m.
• Tuesday, October 6 - 7:00 p.m.
• Thursday, October 8 - 11:30 a.m.

Follow this link 

or call the number to join: Phone: 1-253-205-0468

Meeting ID: 870 1111 5482

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City Council seeks volunteers for voters’ pamphlet pro and con committees for Creation of a Metropolitan Park District

City Council seeks volunteers for voters’ pamphlet pro and con committees for Shoreline Proposition 1:

Creation of a Metropolitan Park District to build, maintain, and operate a pool facility

At its June 1 meeting, the Shoreline City Council adopted Resolution 562 placing Proposition 1 on the November 3, 2026, general election ballot.

Accompanying the ballots will be the King County Voters Pamphlet. The pamphlet will include an explanatory statement from the City that states the effect of the measure if approved. 

In response will be statements in support and opposition to the ballot measure. State law requires the City Council to appoint two committees to draft the pro and con statements. The committees can have no more than three members each; however, the committees may seek advice from any person or persons. The committees will also have an opportunity to write a rebuttal statement to the other side’s statement.

Individuals interested in applying for one of the committee positions should submit an online application no later than June 30, 2026. 

If you would like a paper copy of the application, contact the City Clerk’s Office at clk@shorelinewa.gov or 206-801-2230. 

The City Council will review applications and appoint the committee members at its July 13, 2026, business meeting.

To learn more about the requirements for the voter’s pamphlet and the duties of the pro and con committees, you can review the 2026 Jurisdiction Manual at King County Elections.

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Metropolitan Park District and the Shoreline Pool

Concept design for new Shoreline Pool

The City of Shoreline is putting a proposition on the November ballot to create a Metropolitan Park District to build, maintain, and operate a pool facility.

What is a metropolitan park district?

A metropolitan park district (MPD) is a junior property taxing district with special taxing authority for the management, control, improvement, maintenance, and acquisition of parks, pathways, boulevards, recreational facilities, programs, and services.

What would the Shoreline MPD cover?

The Shoreline MPD would be created for the purpose of constructing, operating, and maintaining the proposed recreational pool facility and for potential future recreational facilities.

How big would the pool facility be and where would it be located?

Based on the current preliminary design, the facility would be approximately 48,000 square feet and include the following: 

• 8-lane, 25-yard, lap pool with starting platforms, two 1m diving boards, stepped entry, ramp and lift access
• recreation pool with stepped entry, ramp, lift access, and a lazy river/current channel for water walking and floating 
• hydrotherapy pool with stepped entry and lift access 
• sauna
• universal change rooms with individual rooms, stalls, and private and deck showers
• pool spectator area with flexible seating options
• lobby with seating, pool viewing area, and snack bar
• classroom and party room 
• staff area and service spaces 
• green spaces between the building and street with connection to the Interurban Trail

More detail on the concept designs of the pool facility is available in the Shoreline Pool Facility Concept Design Report: Select Highlights.

Where would the pool facility be built?

The pool would be built north of City Hall on City-owned property at 17828 Midvale Ave N.

How much would this pool facility cost to build?

The total cost to build the pool facility is estimated to be about $100 million. This total includes design, permitting, construction, paying off the property purchase, and related fees and contingencies. The proposed MPD revenue would be used to finance $95 million of one-time project costs, with the balance funded with a grant from King County.

The $100 million estimated capital construction cost includes $16.6 million to pay off the remaining property purchase.

How much would it cost to operate and maintain the pool?

Current cost estimates show operations and maintenance costs for the first five years averaging about $4.4 million with anticipated revenue from user and rental fees bringing in about $2.9 million. This means that the anticipated revenue generated from user and rental fees would cover 66% of the costs to operate and maintain the pool facility. The remaining 34%, approximately $1.5 million, would be provided from the ongoing MPD property tax. By subsidizing some of the operations and maintenance costs with MPD revenue, we can keep the costs lower for users, making the pool more accessible and affordable.

Does the current proposal to construct a pool facility include constructing a recreation facility

No. The current proposal is just to build a pool facility. However, creation of the Shoreline MPD would allow for the construction of recreation facilities in the future should additional funding be available.

Who pays the property tax for the MPD?

Property owners within the boundaries of the Shoreline MPD, which are the same as the boundaries of the City of Shoreline, would pay the property tax.

How much would the property tax cost property owners?

Preliminary cost estimates for property owners are in the table below.

Why did the former Shoreline Pool close?

King County built the former Shoreline Pool, a 6-lane lap pool, in 1971. By 2020, the pool had reached the end of its useful life and needed significant repairs, maintenance, and upgrades to keep it operational. After years of providing emergency repairs to keep the aging facility open, the City decided to close that facility. The City initially scheduled the closure for September 2021. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City permanently closed the pool in June 2020.

Additional information here

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Background information on the Shoreline Pool

The old Shoreline Pool

By Diane Hettrick

A little history

The old Shoreline Pool was built as part of the 1968 King County Forward Thrust bond.

An assessment made in 2013 showed the pool needed significant health and safety upgrades and other major maintenance to keep it operational.

In 2015, the City Council made the decision to invest $750,000 in several mid-term repairs to extend the life of the pool for another five to seven years. At the time, the contractor had to conduct a nationwide search to find some of the parts needed for the repairs as parts were no longer made for the pool’s outdated equipment.

School swim teams

The pool was used by the swim teams from Shorewood and Shorecrest. Their season lasts three months and the district runs on a lean budget, so there has never been consideration of the school district building and maintaining a pool.

Since the Shoreline pool was closed in 2021, Shorewood trains at the private Innis Arden pool and Shorecrest trains at the private Sheridan Beach pool. Both are outdoor pools and the boys season is in the winter.

The land

The land where the old pool was located belongs to the school district. It was an arrangement that worked for years but I can't think what sense it makes to build a multi-million dollar facility on someone else's land.

New picnic shelter at Shoreline Park
at the site of the old Shoreline Pool

The parks department has now built a large picnic shelter on the site, thanks to funding obtained by Sen. Jesse Salomon, and much to the delight of the Echo Lake Neighborhood Association, which finally has a place for gatherings such as its annual picnic.

Other pools

There are other nearby pools: The YMCA is a membership organization and it is not cheap. Mountlake Terrace built a very nice pool facility but they are already talking about the difficulty of getting parts and the need to replace the pool. Lynnwood has a beautiful facility that they remodeled in 2011 but they are fully scheduled. When Mountlake Terrace closes, it will be even more difficult to schedule new groups.

Who used the Shoreline Pool?

The Shoreline Pool had a full schedule of swim lessons, the swim teams, water polo, diving, lifeguard training. Beyond that there were after hours sessions for adults and children with disabilities. There were special exercise classes, water safety classes, water aerobics, diving classes, water polo teams, and mother-baby swim classes. A kayak class met late at night, learning how to right their boats after tipping over in the water. It was rented out for private parties.

I met a homeless woman who went to the pool to take a shower and never got near the pool itself. I did that myself during an extended power outage.

The previous pool bond

When the previous bond issue was on the ballot in 2019, it had a 54% yes vote but failed the 60% validation requirement required for bonds. It also included everything currently at the Spartan Gym, with the assumption that the city would no longer need the gym.

This time there was extensive public outreach to see what people wanted from a pool facility. The Spartan Gym will remain a recreation site separate from the pool.

Storage court would be the site for a new pool

New location for the pool

When the city had the opportunity to buy the storage locker property a few doors down from City Hall, they didn't hesitate, so we already own the land. The location is in the center of the city, and right along a frequent transit line and a walking trail, making it more accessible to all.

How to pay for the new pool

Revenue generated by the pool activities would cover 66% of the costs to operate and maintain the pool. The remaining 34% would need to come from other revenue sources, such as taxes.

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Shoreline to place measure on the November ballot to fund a community swimming pool

The city owns the land where it proposes to place a community pool

From the Puget Sound Business Journal

Shoreline lawmakers are pushing a measure on the November ballot that would deliver a new $100 million aquatic center, replacing a city-owned storage facility.

This is the city’s second attempt to finance an indoor pool following a failed 2019 ballot measure to create a new parks and pool bond.

“There’s a lot of disappointment that the previous bond did not pass,” Shoreline City Councilmember Chris Roberts said at Monday’s meeting. “Having a public facility is so important to the health and well-being of the community."

The City Council unanimously passed the resolution Monday night to put the measure on the ballot. If approved by voters, the measure would create a Metropolitan Park District with the same boundaries as the city of Shoreline to levy property taxes to build and maintain a new pool facility and future recreational centers.

The initial taxing rate is expected to be $0.55 per $1,000 and generate $8.8 million annually.

The approximately 48,000-square-foot indoor pool would replace the storage facility at 17828 Midvale Ave N, (close to Shoreline City Hall). The city’s previous 1970s-era pool closed in 2020 due to its age and the impact of the pandemic.

Planning for the project began in 2024. A preliminary design completed in February includes an eight-lane lap pool, a recreation pool with a lazy river feature, a hydrotherapy pool and a sauna. Additional space on the property could allow for another recreation facility, if funding becomes available, according to a staff report.

Construction costs are estimated at $61.2 million, as well as $22.2 million in “soft costs,” which include design and permitting fees.

The city owns the project site but would need to pay off $16.6 million in outstanding debt on the land.

A King County grant would provide $5 million for the project’s construction. Revenue from the new taxing district would fund the remaining $95 million.

User fees and rentals would recover 66% of the pool’s average annual operating costs, with the rest coming from property taxes, according to staff.

If voters approve the measure, construction would begin in the third quarter of 2028.

For more stories like this one, sign up for the Business Journal’s free morning and afternoon daily newsletters or download our free app.

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Pro/Con Committee applications open for Shoreline Proposition 1 for a pool facility

Shoreline City Council seeks volunteers for voters’ pamphlet pro and con committees for

Shoreline Proposition 1: Creation of a Metropolitan Park District to build, maintain, and operate a pool facility

Photo courtesy the Seattle Channel

At its June 1, 2026 meeting, the Shoreline City Council adopted Resolution 562 placing Proposition 1 on the November 3, 2026, general election ballot.

Accompanying the ballots will be the King County Voters Pamphlet. The pamphlet will include an explanatory statement from the City that states the effect of the measure if approved. In response will be statements in support and opposition to the ballot measure. 

State law requires the City Council to appoint two committees to draft the pro and con statements. The committees can have no more than three members each; however, the committees may seek advice from any person or persons. The committees will also have an opportunity to write a rebuttal statement to the other side’s statement.

Individuals interested in applying for one of the committee positions should submit an online application no later than June 30, 2026. 

If you would like a paper copy of the application, contact the City Clerk’s Office at clk@shorelinewa.gov or 206-801-2230. The City Council will review applications and appoint the committee members at its July 13, 2026, business meeting.

To learn more about the requirements for the voter’s pamphlet and the duties of the pro and con committees, you can review the 2026 Jurisdiction Manual at King County Elections.

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Pool facility exploration project update

Current site plan

On March 12, 2026, the Shoreline City Council discussed the potential Pool Facility Ballot Measure. They reviewed the proposed design for the pool facility and preliminary cost estimates. They also discussed using property taxes collected through a metropolitan park district to pay for it.

The City Council is interested in moving forward with a ballot measure in November 2026 to build, run, and maintain a new pool facility. Staff are scheduled to present draft ballot materials to the City Council at their May 11 Council meeting. Council has until the end of July to decide whether to place a measure on the November ballot for Shoreline voters to make the final decisions.

Visit the City’s Pool Facility Exploration Project webpage to see the current design booklet and learn more about the project.

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Shoreline Pool facility design open house online

The City of Shoreline is exploring the possibility of a 2026 ballot measure to build, run, and maintain a new public indoor pool facility and is currently working on a preliminary design.

You are invited to participate in the Pool Design Online Open House now through November 30, 2025.

Over 65 community members attended an in-person Design Open House on Thursday, November 13. 

We know that many community members who are interested in learning more and providing comments were not able to attend in person.

The online version of the Open House has the same information as the in-person event. You can learn about the project, see a preliminary design, and understand the exploration process. 

Frequently Asked Questions here

The Online Open House materials include a PDF of design poster boards with information including a map, the site plan, floor plan, changing room options, project timeline and construction cost, and images of what other pools from our design consultants look like.

Learn more and participate in the Design Open House

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Shoreline Pool Facility Exploration Process Design Open House

Attend the Shoreline Pool Facility Exploration Process Design Open House

• Time: Thursday, November 13, 2025: 6:30pm - 8:30pm
• Location: Shoreline City Hall Council Chambers 17500 Midvale Ave N

The City is exploring the possibility of a 2026 ballot measure to build, run, and maintain a new public indoor pool facility. Design consultants and City staff are currently working on a preliminary design.

Join the City for an in-person pool design open house at City Hall. 

You can learn about the project, see a preliminary design, and understand the exploration process. 

Drop-in at any time - there is no formal presentation scheduled. Design consultants and City staff will have large prints of the design work to date and information about the project for you to review. 

Consultants and staff will be ready to answer your questions.

Can’t attend? The materials are available online now. Learn more here

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Share your ideas about a Shoreline Pool

By Diane Hettrick

Unlike the previous Shoreline pool proposal, the city of Shoreline is doing extensive outreach to every person and group who could possibly be interested in having and using a local pool. 

The webpage has information about the process to collect information, a timeline. and most importantly, a survey where you can share your thoughts.

An advisory committee will be formed and you can put your name forward to be included. 

All the ideas and planning will go before the city council in March of 2026 and the city council will have until summer of 2026 to decide whether to proceed with a bond issue.

If they do, we would vote on the bond in November of 2026.

The survey and information are here.

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Shoreline Pool Facility Exploration: You can inform the facility design

The City of Shoreline continues to explore the possibility of placing a ballot measure before Shoreline voters in 2026 to build, run, and maintain a public indoor pool facility. 

Our contracted design team began preliminary design work for a pool facility in June. This work involves doing a geotechnical analysis of the site (17828 Midvale Ave N), creating concept plan ideas, and creating a 10% schematic design due by February 2026.

We want YOUR input during the concept design phase, which runs now through November. Here are three ways to share your thoughts.

1.  Serve on the Shoreline Pool Advisory Committee: Apply Now

The City Manager will appoint 14 to 16 community members to serve on the Pool Facility Advisory Committee (Pool Committee). The Pool Committee will meet eight times from September 2025 through February 2026. The Pool Committee will make a recommendation to the City Manager about the initial design of a new pool facility.

The Pool Committee will reflect the diversity of the Shoreline community, including both swimmers and non-swimmers. Pool Committee members will receive a stipend of $50 for each meeting. Learn more about the Pool Committee’s work and find the application at shorelinewa.gov/poolfacility. Applications are due by 5:00pm on Monday, July 28, 2025.

2.  Summer Engagement: July – August

We want to know what your top priorities are for a new pool facility. What do you think it should include? Some examples are lap swimming, swimming lessons, water aerobics, water polo, play structures, accessible zero-depth entry, party rooms, and a diving well.

This summer, we will gather your input at different events, including Swingin’ Summer Eve, Celebrate Shoreline, and select Noon Concerts, and Saturday Farmers Markets. You can also share your input on our project website. See the event schedule and share your feedback online here

3.  November Facility Design Open House

In November, we will host an open house for you to review the pool concept design and share your feedback. We will share more details on the project website this fall.

More information here

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Shoreline City Manager to appoint Pool Facility Advisory Committee

Demolition of the old Shoreline Pool
photo courtesy City of Shoreline

Applications due July 28

Are you interested in helping to plan for a potential new pool facility in Shoreline? Then apply to be a member of the City’s Pool Facility Advisory Committee (Pool Committee). 

The City Manager will appoint 12 to 14 community members to serve on the Pool Committee. They will meet from September 2025 through February 2026.

Next spring and summer (2026), the City Council will discuss whether to place a pool facility funding measure on the November 2026 election ballot. 

As a starting point for that discussion, the City Manager will provide the Council with a recommendation. 

The Pool Committee will review and provide input on pool designs, purposes, and costs. They will also learn about the funding model. After this review, the Committee’s main goal is to provide a recommendation to the City Manager. He will then use that information to help create his recommendation to the City Council.

The Pool Committee will meet eight times in person at Shoreline City Hall. We will hold the meetings on Tuesday evenings from 7:00 to 9:00pm. 

If you are interested in serving on the Pool Committee, please visit shorelinewa.gov/poolfacility for details and to fill out the online application. If you would like a paper application, you can email hmdelacruz@shorelinewa.gov or call 206-801-2227.

Applications are due by 5:00pm July 28, 2025.

The City Manager is looking to appoint a broad range of community members. Committee members will receive a $50 stipend per meeting. You don’t need to have prior experience serving on a committee or a board to apply.

In addition to the appointed community members, a member of the Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Services/Tree Board and a Shoreline School District staff representative will also sit on the Pool Committee.

For more information about the project and to apply to be a member of the committee, go to shorelinewa.gov/poolfacility.

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