Published on September 12, 2025
Read Time: 2 Minutes
Three Things to Know
- Partnership for Wellness: Phelps Health is considering a plan to lease and run The Centre under a 5-year health and wellness plan.
- Services Stay and Grow: Community memberships will remain available, with added programs for prevention, fitness and underserved groups.
- Shared Benefits: The Centre will become a hub for healthier living, while the City can focus on core, traditional City services.
Phelps Health and the City of Rolla announced today that they have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) outlining plans for Phelps Health to lease and assume operational leadership of The Centre, Rolla’s Health and Recreation Complex. If finalized, the initiative would be part of a 5-year revitalization and transformation plan designed to advance health and wellness throughout the region. It is anticipated that the City of Rolla would retain responsibility and control of the natatorium (indoor pool) while the community explores additional opportunities for that space.
The proposed collaboration would enable Phelps Health to support its mission by expanding into community-based wellness, while maintaining The Centre for community access through memberships. Consolidating preventive care, fitness and education into a central hub like The Centre will allow Phelps Health to make significant strides toward improving community health, employee wellness and long-term patient outcomes.
“The Centre offers a unique opportunity to bring prevention, fitness and care together in one place—reducing chronic disease, supporting families and helping people live their healthiest lives,” said Jason Shenefield, President and CEO of Phelps Health. “This Letter of Intent lays the groundwork to help us expand our mission to provide high-quality, accessible healthcare while preserving The Centre’s legacy.”
“The Centre has always been a point of pride for Rolla,” said Lou Magdits, Mayor of Rolla. “This Letter of Intent reflects our shared commitment with Phelps Health to strengthen The Centre as a vibrant hub for community health, wellness and recreation. This collaboration would allow the City to redirect financial resources to core, traditional City services.”
In addition to providing continued community access to The Centre’s primary services, including fitness programs, strength training, walking track and gymnasium, potential enhancements for The Centre by Phelps Health may include:
- Chronic disease prevention programs and youth/senior wellness activities
- MyFitRX physician referral program and chronic care management services
- Expanded access for underserved populations
- Integration of rehabilitation, nutrition education and weight management programs
- Employee wellness opportunities to reduce stress and prevent burnout
- Corporate wellness partnerships through the Phelps Health Preferred plan
The Centre may also serve as a cornerstone location for Phelps Health’s ToRCH (Transformation of Rural Community Health) initiative, expanding outreach and providing easy access to prevention and wellness services for those who need them most.
The transition timeline has not yet been determined. Both the City of Rolla and Phelps Health are committed to a thoughtful process that ensures stability for current members and staff, and positions The Centre for long-term success. Details of a definitive agreement will be shared once finalized.