This editorial is a compilation from a discussion held by the editorial board. To listen to the conversation that led to this piece, visit mhsmentor.com.
For years after the K-State Natatorium closed during the pandemic, Manhattan swim teams and the general public have advocated for an aquatic center: an accessible public place for high school and professional swimming practices, personal fitness, and year-round family fun. According to KMAN Radio, the city recently partnered with the ETC Institute, a data collection and market analysis organization, to conduct a statistically accurate survey that accurately reflected voters’ preferences on the project. The Manhattan Mercury reports that the survey was mailed to a random, representative sample of 400 registered voters on Nov. 3, 2025. Results are expected in late December, and the city plans to release a report in January or February 2026, explained the Parks and Rec director in a Mercury interview.
The Mentor Editorial Board agrees that we need an aquatic center. In light of some swimmers’ long commutes to Topeka to practice diving, limited space at Genesis Health Clubs, and relying on other schools to host meets because of inadequate facilities here, it is imperative that Manhattan swim teams have a dedicated place to host meets and practices here in the Little Apple.
However, the city’s plans for an aquatic center have sparked debate — not about whether residents and policymakers want the project, but about how much the project would cost. For example, The Mercury notes that while Mayor Karen McCulloh is a proponent of constructing an aquatic center, she believes the project’s cost should be cut in half to about $30 million and partly or mostly financed by private donors.
She’s right. The current plan — projected to cost $60 million — is far too expensive. Funding it would likely raise taxes or the city’s debt, an unappealing proposal for struggling Manhattan residents and fiscally conservative officials alike. Instead of tax hikes, the city should consider private investment and sponsorships from local businesses, grants, and other fundraising efforts.
The project should also be downsized so that it focuses only on swim practices, meets and other swim team needs, as the Manhattan public already enjoys access to a variety of outdoor pools and rec centers. It would be nice to swim year-round, but it’s unclear if residents would want to stomach the costs of that privilege. Moreover, policymakers should consult representatives from Manhattan swim teams at every step of the process, as the aquatic center would benefit them most.
The Little Apple needs an aquatic center — but plans to build one should put teams and taxpayers first.
