Program changes are scheduled before the lease ends
The city plans to move Learn-to-Swim and Open Swim to other pools beginning in January 2027. City of Plano swimmers are expected to remain at the Plano Aquatic Center until August 2027, as is water aerobics; the city may look at offering water aerobics at other pools as well. Plano ISD swim teams are expected to stay at the center, according to Community Impact’s account of the city’s plans.
A longer-term arrangement is still being considered
The city’s lease for the center is scheduled to end in August 2027, after about 50 years. City officials are discussing an arrangement with Plano ISD that could allow residents to keep using the facility after that date. City Manager Mark Israelson said the city expects to transfer the facility to the district under its existing plan while exploring ways to maintain water aerobics and establish a longer-term lease, as Community Impact reported.
Operating costs remain a central issue
At the Oct. 26 council meeting, Parks and Recreation Director Ron Smith presented figures showing annual operating costs of nearly $1.4 million against revenue of $157,017. He said revenue would need to reach $572,162 for the center to meet the city’s 41% cost-recovery expectation, according to Community Impact’s report. Smith also argued that comparing a pool-only venue with facilities that offer more activities and attract broader use can make the center appear less financially sustainable.
The center’s cost-recovery debate comes amid a broader city effort to address recreation revenue. Plano adopted a parks and recreation cost-recovery policy in February 2025; projected increases from related fee changes were $699,537 for the general fund and $314,445 for the recreation revolving fund in fiscal year 2024–25, Local Profile reported.
Residents pointed to the pool’s accessibility
Residents spoke in support of the center at the October meeting. Kris Stephenson told council members that the ramp to the deep end lets people who have difficulty walking take part in deep-water aerobics and use the full pool. She described it as the only pool in the district with that feature, according to Community Impact.
