Frequently asked questions

How will we fund this without adding new taxes?

We're committed to building this without burdening taxpayers. Our funding strategy includes:

Diverse Revenue Streams:

• Revenue-generating features like food service, retail, and event rentals

• Local business partnerships and sponsorships

• Federal, state, and private foundation grants

• Community fundraising campaigns and crowdfunding

Smart Cost Management:

• Pro-bono feasibility workshops to understand our needs, hopes, dreams, and constraints

• Collaborating with local universities on financial analysis, architectural planning, and construction management to reduce professional costs

• Exploring cost-effective modular construction options (like 4EZPools and Clear Span structures) that can deliver a quality facility for around $500K

• Phased development that allows us to start generating revenue while building toward our complete vision

Community Investment: This isn't just about funding—it's about creating a self-sustaining asset that pays for itself through membership fees, programs, and commercial activities while strengthening our local economy.

We're actively exploring all creative funding options and welcome community input on additional revenue opportunities!

Where can I learn more about this "Minimum Lovable Product"? $500k seems quite low for a commercial pool. 

You're absolutely right to question that number—it does sound too good to be true! The $500k figure comes from exploring modular, seasonal pool options that are significantly less expensive than traditional commercial pool construction.

We're looking at companies like 4EZPools and Clear Span that specialize in cost-effective modular structures designed specifically for community use. These aren't permanent concrete installations but engineered systems that can provide quality aquatic programming at a fraction of traditional costs.

See the Valley Recreation Center Facebook Page “files” section for the full minimum lovable product analysis that breaks down the costs, specifications, and feasibility of this approach.

We encourage community members to review the full analysis and share feedback—these numbers and approaches need thorough vetting from our community before we move forward!

How will the center serve community members with disabilities and accessibility needs? 

As we progress through feasibility studies, we'll explore how to incorporate accessibility features within our budget, including:

Universal Design Considerations:

• Accessible entrances, pathways, and changing areas

• Pool lifts and zero-entry access options

• Adaptive equipment and assistive technology

• Accessible parking and transportation considerations

Inclusive Programming:

• Adaptive aquatic programs and therapeutic swimming

• Partnerships with disability service organizations

• Staff training on accessibility and inclusion

• Sensory-friendly programming options

Community Input: We actively seek input from community members with different abilities to ensure our facility truly serves everyone's needs. Your perspective and involvement are invaluable in creating a space that works for our entire community.

Get Involved: We'd love to have you join our planning process! We will dive into this more during our feasibility workshops, where community input on accessibility and inclusion will be essential. Contact us to share your insights and help shape an inclusive recreation center that serves all Valley residents.

How will the center create a safe and welcoming environment for transgender and non-binary swimmers?

Creating a safe, inclusive environment for all community members, including transgender and non-binary individuals, is important to us. We recognize that traditional pool facilities can present challenges around changing areas, restrooms, and general comfort for LGBTQ+ swimmers.

Inclusive Design Considerations:

• Family/universal changing rooms and restroom options

• Clear, welcoming policies that protect all users

• Staff training on LGBTQ+ inclusion and sensitivity

• Programming that welcomes swimmers of all identities

Community-Driven Approach: We're committed to listening to our LGBTQ+ community members about what would make you feel most comfortable and safe. We will explore options that prioritize dignity and safety for everyone.

Ongoing Dialogue: We will dive into this more during our feasibility workshops, where input from LGBTQ+ community members will help us design policies and spaces that truly serve everyone in our Valley community.

Our community has tried this before. What makes this effort different?

You're right—and we're learning from those previous efforts! This time is different for several key reasons:

Timing and Growth: Our community has grown significantly, creating a larger base of potential users and supporters. What might not have been financially viable before could work now with our expanded population.

Strategic Approach:

• Priority focus on financial sustainability and linking funding with each critical milestone

• Pro-bono and university collaborations to reduce professional costs

• Multiple revenue streams from day one (memberships, programs, events, partnerships, commercial opportunities)

• We're considering cost-effective, modular solutions in addition to permanent construction

Diverse Funding Strategy: Instead of relying on tax levies, we're pursuing revenue-generating features, partnerships, grants, and crowdfunding to make the center self-sustaining.

Community-Led Process: This effort is truly grassroots, with extensive community workshops and input driving every decision. We're building based on our community wants and needs.

Proven Models: We're learning from successful rural recreation centers elsewhere and adapting cost-effective approaches that have worked in similar communities.

This isn't about trying the same thing again—it's about applying lessons learned with fresh strategies that match our community's current reality and resources.

This sounds great! How can I help make it happen?

This is a community-driven effort, and we need all kinds of talents and contributions to make it successful.

Ways to Get Involved:

• Join our feasibility workshops - Help shape what we build and how we build it

• Volunteer your skills - Whether it's marketing, construction, fundraising, event planning, or professional expertise

• Spread the word - Talk to friends, family, and neighbors about the vision

• Financial support - Every contribution, large or small, will help us reach our goals (for now, hold on to your money - we are waiting to raise funds until just before we need it) Donate here 

• Business partnerships - If you own a local business, explore sponsorship or collaboration opportunities 

• Grant writing - Help us identify and apply for funding opportunities

• Community connections - Introduce us to people who might be interested in supporting the project

Stay Connected:

• Follow our progress on:

  • Facebook: Snoqualmie Foothills Community Collaborative 

  • Instagram: @snoqualmiefoothills 

• Be on the lookout for public meetings and events via social media

• Share your ideas and feedback

Contact Us: Ready to jump in? FB message @SnoqualmieFoothillsCC or send us an email  snoqualmiefoothills@gmail.com and let us know how you'd like to contribute. Every community member who gets involved brings us one step closer to making this vision a reality!