By Debbie Roach
Just FYI to everyone. The pool is not a money making proposition for the city. It costs us money every year and has not seen a profit in over 30 years and we are looking at equipment upgrades of over $50,000 just to keep it going next year, not to mention tile work and trying to add chairs, shade for the baby pool and others things to make it a little nicer for our citizens. We keep it open because it’s the only thing our kids, both inside the city limits and outside the city have to enjoy in the summer. It’s also a way to provide employment opportunities for teenagers that may be looking at college expenses and living on their own.
Would incentives for part time seasonal employees be good? Yes, but we cannot afford it. Would paying higher wages be good? Yes, but we cannot afford it. Would raising the price to swim be good? Absolutely, but we try to keep it affordable for everyone.
After reading all the comments my question is…..who would be willing to help with a fundraiser to help raise $50,000 for a new pump, or $20,000 for a new diving board, or $1,000 for new chairs, or even make a donation to help keep the pool going? Would you be willing to pay an additional 1/2 cent tax to keep it open?? Any ideas on how to sustain our pool are welcome!
Many small communities like ours no longer have a public pool and those that do passed a bond issue or a tax in order to keep it going. Are you willing to invest time and a little money to keep it operating or are we going to have to close it like many other communities?
I personally do not want to see it closed and am open to ideas and thoughts on what we can do to keep providing this service to our kids!!
Debbie Roach is the Mayor of Grant City.
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