Council Member Bell proposes halt to Taylor Poole demolition for evaluation

The Payson Town Council meeting on February 26, 2025, focused on the future of the Taylor Pool, with significant discussions surrounding the potential rescindment of a prior decision to demolish the facility. Council member Bell initiated the conversation by advocating for a thorough evaluation of the pool before any demolition takes place. He highlighted successful renovation projects in other Arizona towns, such as Globe, which modernized their aquatic facilities at a fraction of the cost of building new ones.

Bell emphasized the need for professional assessments rather than relying on community opinions or consultants. He argued that a comprehensive evaluation by pool contractors could provide clarity on whether the existing pool could be renovated or if demolition is indeed necessary. He expressed concern over the council's previous decision to demolish the pool, suggesting that it should be reconsidered until a professional evaluation is conducted.

Council member Jim supported Bell's proposal, questioning whether a formal resolution or majority direction from the council was needed to halt the demolition process. The discussion underscored the importance of community infrastructure and the potential benefits of preserving the existing pool, which could serve as a valuable recreational resource.

The council's next steps will likely involve determining the process for obtaining professional evaluations of the Taylor Pool, as well as addressing the community's desire for accessible aquatic facilities. The outcome of this discussion could significantly impact the town's recreational offerings and budget considerations moving forward.