Community pool future hangs in the balance as referendum looms

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed the future of the community pool, emphasizing the need for a public referendum to secure funding for a new facility. Concerns were raised regarding the current pool's operational challenges, including significant leaks and excessive water usage, which have led to difficulties in maintaining water quality. The Department of Health has indicated that without addressing these issues, an operating permit for the next season will not be granted.

The discussion highlighted the urgency of the situation, with one official noting that the pool has been running on a single basin, which is unsustainable. The mayor of Kankakee shared insights from a similar experience in his community, where a public referendum was successfully used to gauge community support for a new pool. He recounted that another nearby community faced setbacks when their initial referendum failed, resulting in a two-year gap without a pool. Ultimately, a second referendum passed overwhelmingly as residents recognized the importance of recreational facilities.

The meeting underscored the community's emotional connection to the pool, with officials recalling personal stories tied to the location, reinforcing the need for investment in local recreation. As the city prepares to move forward, the outcome of the upcoming referendum will be crucial in determining the future of the community's swimming facilities.