By: Ryan Duey

Photos Courtesy of Ryan Duey

The Clay Center Aquatic Park is currently under maintenance, repairing leaks that have been popping up as the pool ages. Energy Center Manhattan Pool has been contracted to find and fix leaks along the lazy river.

Phil Kasper, City Councilman, stated that Energy Center has the specialized equipment needed to find and repair leaks in an efficient and timely manner. They are able to work through all seasons and weather. Kasper highlighted that all work is expected to be completed by pool season in 2026.

The repairs will be paid for out of the city’s half-cent sales tax fund, which can only be spent on the Clay Center Aquatic Center. The tax was approved by public vote, and the City provides reports on how those funds are spent, said Kasper.

He said the City is also regularly audited on all of its accounts and how its money is spent.

Kasper said it is illegal for the funds to be spent on anything other than the Aquatic Center. As the pool ages, routine maintenance and leaks will occur. The half-cent sales tax fund ensures that the city of Clay Center will have a well-maintained Aquatic Park for years to come.