School Board debates pool closures and lifeguard outsourcing funding in Savannah

In a heated budget workshop held on April 16, 2025, local officials in Georgia grappled with the future of community pools, igniting passionate discussions about accessibility and responsibility. The meeting, attended by school board members and city officials, revealed a stark divide over the management and funding of public swimming facilities, particularly the Jenkins and Haven pools.

As the conversation unfolded, the financial implications of keeping the pools operational became a focal point. Estimates suggested that outsourcing lifeguard services would cost around $70,000 for two lifeguards at each site from May to August, with ongoing maintenance expenses projected at approximately $310,000. Additionally, a one-time expense of $180,000 was anticipated to bring the Haven pool up to standard, while the closure of two other pools would incur a cost of $150,000. In total, the financial burden could reach an estimated $1.1 million.

Dr. Howard Hall, a vocal advocate for the community, expressed frustration over the proposed closures, emphasizing the need for collaboration among school, city, and county officials. "It is shameful... that we're making plans to close those two pools," Hall stated, highlighting the outcry from parents and community members who rely on these facilities for recreation and safety.

Contrasting Hall's stance, Dr. Breenman voiced a strong desire to exit the pool management business altogether, arguing that it falls outside the educational mission of the school district. "We are not in the pool business," Breenman asserted, suggesting that the city and county should take over the responsibility. He pointed out the challenges of finding qualified lifeguards, a concern echoed by others in the meeting.

The discussion underscored a broader issue of community resources and the need for equitable access to recreational facilities across the county. With many children lacking swimming opportunities, the urgency for a solution became apparent. "We have a lot of children who drown... because they just don't have the resources around them," one member noted, stressing the importance of addressing this public safety concern.

As the meeting concluded, the call for a collaborative approach resonated among attendees. The need for a joint meeting with city and county officials was proposed, aiming to forge a path forward that ensures the community's swimming facilities remain open and accessible. The outcome of these discussions could shape the future of public pools in the area, reflecting the community's commitment to both safety and recreation.