Longview council debates $3M pool construction amid community calls for youth opportunities

The Longview City Council meeting on March 27, 2025, focused on community needs, particularly the proposal for a new public swimming pool on the South Side, and updates on police reserve officer regulations.

During the meeting, several community members voiced their support for a swimming pool, emphasizing its importance for youth development and safety. Nima Barfoot, a local resident, highlighted the necessity of swimming lessons for children, stating that access to a pool could be life-saving. Fantasia Allen echoed this sentiment, arguing that providing recreational opportunities could help steer youth away from negative behaviors. LaRonde Chadwick added that many children lack transportation to existing pools, making a local facility essential for their engagement and safety.

The council also discussed the need for additional funding for the proposed pool at Stamford Park, with a request to allocate $3 million from the city’s fund balance. Council members acknowledged that initial cost estimates for the pool construction had risen significantly, prompting the need for further discussion on budget adjustments.

In addition to the pool proposal, the meeting included a review of regulations concerning reserve police officers. Chief Boone explained the need to codify the role of reserve officers in the city’s ordinance, proposing an increase in the number of reserve officers from five to eight. This change aims to enhance community policing efforts and ensure adequate support for the full-time police force.

The council approved the consent agenda, which included the proposed changes to vending and solicitation regulations, aimed at improving community safety by adjusting permitted hours and requiring background checks for solicitors.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to addressing community concerns, particularly regarding youth engagement and public safety, while navigating budgetary challenges. The next steps will involve further discussions on the swimming pool funding and the implementation of the revised police regulations.