Council directs staff to pursue grants for pool chair lift after resident’s plea

The Ainsworth City Council voted unanimously to direct staff to pursue grant applications and other funding to acquire a pool chair lift for the city swimming pool after resident Julie Meiser described the challenges her son Coulter faces in accessing the pool.

Meiser, who identified herself to the council, said Coulter was born with a rare, progressive muscular condition and that a lift would let him continue safe, independent access to aquatic therapy and recreation. "...this directly will benefit my family, but my hope is that if we can install a pool lift other people in our community ... would like to access the pool but can't because they too have mobility issues," Meiser said.

Council members and staff discussed options including portable battery-powered lifts, manual or ground-mounted lifts, liability and training for pool staff, and where lift anchors and electrical runs would be placed. Staff noted that the city can apply through the ABC committee and that the Brown County Community Foundation is another funding source; the foundation’s application cycle runs through March with awards in spring.

Council approved a motion directing Lisa and city staff to prepare and submit ABC and foundation applications and to return with model recommendations, cost estimates, and any insurance or training requirements. Staff and council emphasized selecting equipment that fits pool operations and minimizes liability and storage issues. The council did not commit municipal funds beyond directing staff to pursue grants and report back.