Resident questions Jersey Village Council on pool water loss and destruction decision

During the April 14, 2025 City Council meeting in Jersey Village, a significant discussion arose regarding the recent decision to demolish the community pool, which has been a source of contention among residents. A local resident expressed concerns about the accuracy of the reported water loss from the pool, which was cited as a primary reason for its destruction.

The resident questioned how the city determined the pool was losing approximately five inches of water per day, suggesting that the method of measurement lacked transparency. City staff explained that a water loss audit was conducted, which involved measuring the water level over a 24-hour period while accounting for evaporation and equipment operation. However, the resident raised doubts about the thoroughness of this investigation and requested access to logs or records of the tests performed.

In a detailed analysis, the resident shared findings from a public information request regarding the pool's water meter data. They calculated the maximum water loss attributed to the pool, considering other fixtures connected to the same meter. Their calculations indicated that the actual water loss might be significantly lower than the city's estimates, leading to questions about the necessity of the pool's demolition without further investigation.

The resident emphasized that while the pool may not meet modern codes, it had been functioning adequately without any reported water quality issues. They argued that the decision to destroy the pool seemed premature and called for more due diligence before such actions were taken.

City officials acknowledged the resident's concerns and expressed interest in reviewing the provided data to better understand the calculations and the rationale behind the pool's closure. This discussion highlights ongoing community engagement and the importance of transparency in local government decisions, particularly those affecting public amenities. As the city moves forward, it will be crucial to address these concerns to maintain trust and ensure that residents feel heard in future deliberations.