Pullman School District Ends Interlocal Agreement with City of Pullman to Operate the Aquatic Center

Pullman, WALocal News

The Pullman School District 267 has decided to terminate its shared use agreement with the City of Pullman for the Aquatic Center, with the final day of city-operated services scheduled for August 31, 2025. This decision stems from financial challenges faced by the school district, as outlined by Superintendent Bob Maxwell, who stressed the importance of careful financial planning. Mayor Francis Benjamin expressed appreciation for the longstanding partnership with the school district, highlighting the community benefits derived from the Aquatic Center, particularly for local youth. Although the city will no longer manage the facility, it is actively exploring alternative options for pool operations after the closure, such as enhancing services at Reaney Pool and seeking interlocal agreements with other agencies. In light of the impending changes, Pullman Parks and Recreation is moving forward with a 20% discount on annual Aquatic Center memberships in September.

This shift represents a significant change in local aquatic services, which could affect community engagement and youth programs. The city and school district remain committed to future collaborations on different projects. The termination of this agreement highlights the financial realities facing public institutions and their impact on local services.

Related Articles

Meetings

Local government meetings are scheduled throughout the week in Whitman and Latah counties, including sessions for city councils and planning commissions. Key meetings include the Whitman County Commissioners on Monday and the Moscow Urban Renewal Agency on Thursday. These gatherings provide residents opportunities to engage with local governance.

Berney to retire as counseling point man

Mike Berney, Executive Director of Palouse River Counseling, will retire in December after over 30 years of service, paving the way for Clinical Director Kathleen Stewardson to assume his role. Under Berney's leadership, the organization expanded significantly, enhancing mental health services across Whitman County. Berney expressed optimism for the future of behavioral health in the community.

Fire is not the enemy

Volunteers in north central Idaho conducted a controlled burn near Viola to reduce wildfire risks and enhance ecological health. Led by Heather Heward, the team emphasized the importance of fire as a tool for land management, likening it to medicine for wildlands. Participants included university students and local forestry professionals learning to adapt to fire’s role in the ecosystem.