On November 5, 2024, Oak Creek-Franklin residents will have the opportunity to vote on a community-based plan to replace the only pool in the community (a 62-year-old pool) with a new community pool and a competition pool that would provide aquatic opportunities for all.“After completing the 2018 referendum projects on time and on budget, we knew the pool was the remaining piece of our Master Plan that needed to be addressed so we re-engaged the community to find the best solution,” said Superintendent Dan Thielen.

From lessons to laps, fun to fitness

After months of planning and task force meetings, as well as surveys and community engagement sessions, the proposed plan aims to construct a new facility with two pools which would provide separate warm water and competition areas that cater to diverse needs and activities – serving both students and the wider community.

If approved, the referendum would provide our community with:

• a separate community pool for expanded pool access during and after school, offering more programming opportunities for our community (ie. swimming lessons, open swim, senior and prenatal programs). The plan includes a community room, public and family locker rooms, and restrooms to provide opportunity and access for all demographics, making it a true community pool. It also features a separate entrance and dedicated parking to ensure ease of access for all visitors.
• a competition pool that would address the current limitations of the existing pool, such as limited seating and deck space, undersized swim lanes, storage constraints, lighting and temperature control issues, a leaky diving well, and dated locker rooms. These improvements would not only meet WIAA standards (allowing OCF to host conference events), they would create an enclosed entrance from the Ninth Grade Center to the 10-12 Grade Building for enhanced security.

Modifying our Debt Strategy will result in a tax neutral investment.

The existing pool has served the District well, but it has surpassed its expected life of 55 years and continues to face notable challenges. The cost of the referendum is $34.3 million, and the resulting annual debt levy will be neutral as the District adjusts its debt strategy to accommodate the cost of the new pool.

The proposed plan is not just an upgrade to the existing facilities but a commitment to improving the community's health and fitness through increased aquatics access. This investment reflects the District’s dedication to providing a modern, safe, and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy.

The district will be providing additional referendum information on our website (www.ocfsd.org/pool), social media sites, mailings, informational meetings, and pool tours. Please join us at one of the upcoming community information sessions.

• Monday, September 16 at 6:00 pm, Oak Creek High School Cafeteria (340 E Puetz Rd, Oak Creek)
• Friday, October 4 at 10:00 am, Oak Creek High School Little Theatre (340 E Puetz Rd, Oak Creek)

We will also have information booths on Saturday, September 7 from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm at Knights Community Stadium and at the homecoming football game on Friday, October 4 at6:00 pm at Knights Community Stadium.