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Riverbend Park opens; pool season ends and staff warn of lifeguard shortages
Summary
Parks staff reported the grand opening of Riverbend Park, closure of the public pool for the season on Aug. 10 and staffing shortfalls that will require recruiting at least four lifeguards for next season; staff also updated on park maintenance and reservations.
Parks staff told the Spruce Pine Town Council that Riverbend Park held a grand opening and has received positive neighborhood feedback, while the municipal pool was closed Aug. 10 for the season and staff must recruit multiple lifeguards for next year.
The parks director said Riverbend Park (the name chosen by staff) provides a quieter, more secluded amenity for neighborhood residents, but that invasive knotweed will require regular maintenance. The director described recent maintenance work at Riverside Park, including removal of old restrooms, shrub and fence work, relocation of a water faucet to the large shelter and plans to repair the press box and replace a roof.
Regarding the pool, the director said all equipment has been stored, the baby pool drained and that recent staff turnover will require recruiting roughly four lifeguards: several seasonal staff are not returning for reasons including military service and school employment. Parks staff said they will begin recruitment and continue interviews for a full-time position shared between departments.
Staff also reviewed upcoming events: a pocket-park arts event, beekeeping demonstration, and coordination with planners for a Halloween street festival; they noted the Treasures in the Fall Festival application to close part of Lower Street on Sept. 28 is complete except for insurance. Cycle NC will stage a ride through Spruce Pine in conjunction with the Rotary Club's barbecue festival downtown.
Council members asked staff to inspect a meter and steps at Riverside Park and staff agreed to follow up. No formal votes were recorded on parks items in the meeting transcript.
