The Natchitoches City Council voted to move forward with the first phase of a proposed renovation of the city’s public swimming pool during its October 26 meeting, approving a resolution authorizing the advertisement and acceptance of construction bids.
Resolution No. 071 of 2026, presented by Councilwoman-at-Large Betty Smith-Kirkendoll, authorizes the mayor to advertise for and accept bids for Phase One of the Natchitoches Public Swimming Pool project, Bid No. 0684. The project is planned in three phases, with the first phase focusing primarily on demolition of the existing pool house, site preparation, dirt work and potentially plumbing and utility-related improvements.
City officials explained that the existing swimming pool has experienced ongoing leaks and that the aging facility requires substantial improvements. The project was originally designed in 2022, when the estimated cost for the complete renovation was approximately $4 million. Officials acknowledged that construction costs have increased since that time.
The city has budgeted approximately $1.4 million for the first phase, although the actual cost will not be determined until bids are received.
The proposed project generated discussion among council members concerning its cost, scope and timing, particularly as the city continues to address water and sewer infrastructure needs. Councilman Dale Nielsen questioned the amount budgeted for the initial phase and requested additional details about the work included in each of the project’s three phases.
City officials explained that engineers developed the phased approach based on the overall project design, allowing the city to complete improvements incrementally rather than committing to the entire project at once. Plans discussed for the completed facility include a possible indoor or partially enclosed swimming pool, water features, a splash park and accessibility accommodations.
The possibility of an enclosed facility was discussed in connection with expanding opportunities for swimming lessons and water aerobics beyond the summer months. Officials also discussed a potential partnership with Northwestern State University that could allow the city to use the university’s swimming facilities while the municipal pool is unavailable during construction.
The city’s recreation director emphasized the importance of maintaining affordable swimming lessons for local children. The city’s current program costs $20 for two weeks of instruction, and officials expressed concern about preserving that price if lessons are temporarily relocated.
Discussions with Northwestern State University have included the possibility of using a designated portion of the university’s swimming complex for city swimming lessons, with city lifeguards continuing to provide instruction. Officials also discussed the possibility of a longer-term partnership with the university, although no agreement has been finalized.
Harold Bayonne, representing Citizens for Democratic Action and the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation, addressed the council in support of the project. Bayonne emphasized the importance of swimming instruction, recreational opportunities and access to safe swimming facilities for children throughout the community. He also indicated that the Natchitoches Community Improvement Foundation would be willing to assist with transportation and lifeguard expenses associated with providing swimming lessons during construction.
While council members expressed support for improving recreational opportunities, concerns remained about the project’s cost and the city’s other financial obligations. Nielsen questioned whether the proposed first-phase budget was appropriate for the work being discussed and requested more detailed information about the project’s scope.
Other council members emphasized that authorizing the bidding process would allow the city to obtain actual construction prices before making a financial commitment.
The resolution was approved, with Nielsen voting against it.
Bids are scheduled to be advertised November 5, 12 and 19. Sealed and electronic proposals will be accepted until 2 p.m. Tuesday, December 1, 2026, at the city’s Purchasing Office, located at 1400 Sabine Street. City officials indicated that bids would return to the council for review, with final action anticipated in January 2027.
The council’s approval authorizes the city to seek bids for the first phase of the project. It does not award a construction contract or obligate the city to proceed with construction at the budgeted amount.