Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent
Cracks in the well of the diving pool have been filled and sealed, and the outdoor swimming pool in Buchholtz Park in Clintonville is expected to open Saturday.
Justin McAuly, Park and Recreation director, said the opening of the pool was delayed after leaks were discovered when the pool was filled.
“These cracks developed with frost. We weren’t expecting it. It was a harsh winter for the pool,” McAuly said.
A study by Neuman Pools last fall concluded there could be a million dollars worth of repairs and upgrading needed at the pool. The Park and Recreation Committee is considering whether the city should keep operating the pool after this season.
“The outdoor pool is a big draw. Not many communities are as fortunate to have one,” chairperson Gloria Dunlavy said at the committee’s meeting Tuesday. “The youth need it. They need to get outside to get their vitamin D.”
McAuly said youngsters prefer to swim at the outdoor pool in the summer rather than the Recreation Center’s indoor pool. He also said he knew of communities that are building outdoor pools.
The committee asked City Administrator Lisa Kotter and McAuly to get more detailed information on repair costs, as well as the cost of a new pool.
“We will have to do a fundraiser,” Alderman Jerry Jorgenson said.
Alderman James Krause suggested looking into a dome for the pool as one way to extend the life of the pool.