Somerville officials cite human error after chemical spill at Jenny Smithers Pool; one‑day weekly closure planned

City and school officials said a chemical incident at the Jenny Smithers Pool in June was caused by human error and described immediate safety fixes, updated procedures and short‑term operational changes intended to reduce the chance of a repeat.

In remarks to the School Buildings, Facilities and Maintenance Special Committee on Sept. 15, Nikki Spencer, chief of staff in the mayor’s office, said an investigation found “human error via overfilling of a tank of muriatic acid in the storage closet.” Spencer told the committee that the city had not detected toxic fumes in the pool or school buildings and that departments took steps to secure the site and clarify procedures.

Why it matters: The pool serves students, seniors and community users; repeated closures this year prompted public concern. The city said it has adopted immediate safeguards and a short‑term operating plan intended to preserve access while improving maintenance and communications.

Officials’ actions and new procedures

City staff described a package of fixes and operational changes implemented this summer…