Somerville Council seeks clarity on pool maintenance process after month-long shutdown

In a recent meeting of the Somerville City School Building Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee, significant concerns were raised regarding the management and maintenance of the city’s pool facilities. The discussions highlighted a lack of clear communication and coordination among various departments responsible for pool operations, which has led to operational inefficiencies and safety concerns.

Committee members expressed frustration over the apparent disorganization in the management process. One member noted that despite ongoing conversations about improving inter-departmental collaboration, the current report indicated a troubling lack of seamless cooperation. This has raised doubts about the city’s ability to effectively manage its pool and other assets, particularly when it comes to essential tasks like chemical testing.

The committee emphasized the need for a clearly defined process that outlines responsibilities and timelines for maintenance activities. There was a consensus that a structured document detailing these processes is necessary to ensure accountability and prevent future issues. The member stressed the importance of providing constituents with confidence in the city’s management plans, especially given that the pool has been closed for nearly two months.

In response to these concerns, Liaison Redazzi committed to bringing the issues back to the Mayor’s office for further clarification and to develop a more robust maintenance plan. The committee is eager to see a comprehensive strategy that includes clear roles for all involved parties, ensuring that safety protocols and testing procedures are consistently followed.

Director Yerkes provided additional context, explaining that confusion over testing responsibilities had contributed to the current situation. He acknowledged that the pool manager had not understood his role in the testing process, which led to lapses in compliance. Yerkes assured the committee that steps would be taken to rectify these misunderstandings and improve operational practices moving forward.

As the committee prepares for its next meeting, members are hopeful that a detailed maintenance plan will be presented, addressing the outlined concerns and establishing a clear framework for future pool management. The discussions underscore the critical need for effective communication and coordination among city departments to ensure the safety and satisfaction of the community.