Macomb, IL – Macomb aldermen are not anxious to take the plunge and close Glenwood Pool after this summer.
Sixth Ward Alderman Tim Lobdell suggested the city and park district take another look at the pool after this season. He hopes Glenwood might be able to make it through another year without spending too much money.
Aldermen did not take a vote on the matter during their May 11 committee of the whole meeting. But there appears to be consensus to follow that suggestion.
Lobdell said he does not want to throw good money after bad in trying to keep open the pool. "But with that being said, we're talking about a timeline that is going to leave us without a pool for at least two years when you factor in construction," said Lobdell.
Mayor Mick Wisslead hopes something can be done at the end of the summer to prevent problems from occuring over the winter months. This past winter, the pool liner separated from the deck by at least three inches in some spots.
The cost estimate to correct the problem is between $6,000 and $12,000. The cost will be split by the city and park district.
In addition, the city and park district have each budgeted $25,000 for a study by professional consultants. The study will look at issues such as the cost of building a new pool, financing, operational costs, location, and the cost of demolishing Glenwood.
City Administrator Dean Torreson says the study is to be completed by December 31, 2010. But some aldermen hope it can be completed more quickly. They would like to put the study's recommendations before voters in November 2010 if possible.
Meanwhile, the park district will begin filling the pool this week. Once it's filled, the city will have a better idea of what repairs are needed.