Parker’s public swimming pool in Pop Harvey Park is the subject of controversy this week following news that the town council is accepting bids for the demolition of the pool.
According to Town Manager Lori Wedemeyer, the town cannot afford the operating costs of the pool, which has been closed since 2003. This means that, whether or not funding is acquired to renovate it, the town would not be able to reopen and run the pool due to lack of money. Wedemeyer said that a final decision has not been made on the matter, and the bids will simply allow the council to make a more educated decision with regard to whether the pool should be demolished.
This news has been met with a grassroots effort against the pool’s demolition, involving forming a non-profit organization which aims to raise the money to build and operate the pool. The organizer, Missi Gilbert, says she believes that persistently looking for grants and other funding is the answer to saving the pool.
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3 comments ↓
1 Missi Gilbert // Sep 13, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Come out and get involved! Come to the three next scheduled meetings! Pop Harvey Aquatics will meet on Wednesday 9/15 at 6pm at the gingerbread house. The town of parker rill have a workshop on the pool on Thursday 9/16 at 5:15 we would love to see you there! Our organization will be holding a meeting at town hall on Monday 9/21 at 7 pm for your thoughts, assistance and ideas! We need all of you!
2 Robb // Sep 14, 2009 at 8:03 am
Where are the Tribes in all of this? Certainly they have some money to donate to the town for this project. This would benefit ALL of the people in the Parker area which means Native kids who are unable to get to the Casino could have summer activities as well.
Time to step up and do the right thing CRIT. Show your support for all of the people in the area.
3 MISSI GILBERT // Feb 5, 2010 at 7:38 pm
Hi Robb! The tribes did donate $30,000.00 towards the pool. When we lost the grant the town and tribes collectively chose to use it for the cemetery. The tribes and the town have developed a working relationship lately! It is so nice to see! For those of us that have lived her our whole lives, we are astounded to see the progress! Thank you town and tribes for building a better community for us! One step at a time guys! Two “business” (town of Parker and Tribes) working together for a greater purpose!
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