Pool manager seeks formal closure policy; council shortens supper closure and approves security camera plan

Pool Manager Tamara Payton asked the Truman City Council on Aug. 18 to adopt a formal pool-closure policy to address low attendance and clarify procedures for staff and season passholders. Payton said weather closures are required for thunder, lightning or heavy rain and that reopening requires 30 minutes without thunder or lightning, and she described staffing adjustments used to minimize costs when attendance is low.

Councilor Danielle Williams proposed a threshold-based rule to close the pool when fewer than five swimmers remain after the first hour; the council agreed that any closure policy adopted will be printed on season-pass information sheets. Councilors also asked staff to update the city website with current pool rates and information.

The council agreed to reduce the pool’s supper closure from 90 minutes to 60 minutes, setting the break from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., and to require advance notice when the local school plans to bring daycare groups so sufficient lifeguards can be scheduled. Payton said lifeguards will be required to turn in uniforms and equipment at the end of the season and that lifejackets and other supplies will be stored off-site for safekeeping.

Payton reported repeated damage to the city’s mini golf course and some equipment; the council decided campers should still have equipment available but supported installing security cameras in 2026 to help deter vandalism. The council did not adopt a final written closure policy at the meeting but directed staff to prepare updated season-pass language and website content reflecting the discussed rules and operational changes. The meeting record shows no public comments on pool operations.