The Special Joint Meeting of the Parks and Harbor Committee and the Ad-Hoc Pool Committee held on September 24, 2025, in Grosse Pointe Farms, focused on gathering public input regarding proposed changes to local recreational facilities. The meeting, chaired by a member of the Parks and Harbor Committee, emphasized the importance of community feedback in shaping decisions about the parks and pool facilities.

City officials, including City Manager Shane Rieside and Parks and Recreation Director Chris Galatas, were present to discuss the feedback received from a previous community meeting held on August 19, which attracted around 140 attendees. The discussions highlighted several key concerns from residents regarding the proposed plans.

One significant topic was the removal of the existing splash pad, which many residents opposed due to its popularity among families with young children. Attendees expressed that the proposed replacement, a splashing deck outside the pool area, would not adequately serve the community's needs.

Another point of contention was the proposed lazy river feature. Contrary to expectations, many residents raised concerns about its practicality, cost, and maintenance requirements, questioning its overall feasibility.

Additionally, discussions included the layout and length of swim lanes in the proposed leisure pool. Residents voiced a desire for swim lanes that align more closely with competitive swimming standards, as well as concerns about the loss of shaded and grassy areas that currently provide comfort and recreation space.

The meeting underscored the community's demand for transparency and ongoing dialogue regarding the development of local recreational facilities. City officials reiterated their commitment to incorporating public feedback into future plans, with the intention of presenting a refined proposal to the city council for further discussion and approval.

As the process moves forward, the Parks and Harbor Committee aims to ensure that community voices are heard and considered in the planning of these important public amenities.