Students urge Alexander County commissioners to pursue community pool for safety and recreation

At the Jan. 6 Alexander County Board of Commissioners meeting, several students speaking during the public comment period urged the board to pursue a county-owned swimming pool, saying a pool would improve water-safety training, public health and local recreation.

Griffin Duncan, who identified himself at the podium as a student, told commissioners, "It's no secret that we've got several lakes nearby, Lake Hickory being the biggest 1," and said the lake's turbidity makes it "not the best environment for a first time swimmer to learn how to swim." Duncan said a clear, lifeguarded pool would be a safer, more controlled venue for instruction.

Lucas Ritchie, a senior at Alexander Early College, said a community pool would benefit older residents because "it's easier on the joints" and could help attract families and businesses as the county grows. Emery Miller, a sophomore at Alexander Early College, described aerobic and cardiovascular benefits, saying "a new community pool would encourage physical fitness among students, parents, and community members." Dayton Hart said a pool could bring economic benefit by encouraging recreation and events that residents now travel outside the county to attend.

Comments were made during the public comment portion of the meeting and were not part of a formal agenda item; commissioners did not vote or issue direction on a pool project during the session. Miriam Starnes was listed on the sign-up sheet but did not speak while students addressed the board.

The remarks raise swim-safety concerns tied to Lake Hickory and highlight perceived health and economic benefits from local aquatic facilities. No staff presentation, cost estimate or timeline for a pool project was offered at the meeting.