ALPENA — The Plaza Pool in Alpena has had its struggles over the years, but the hard work of its director, Krista Morrow, has helped to keep the pool afloat.

Now, the hunt for a new aquatics director has begun as Morrow is leaving the pool on Aug. 31 after being the director for eight years, and an employee for 17 years.

The pool is owned by Alpena County, which contracts with Synchronization Management to manage it.

Morrow said the pool is a huge part of her life, but the hours needed to manage it are too much for her at this point. She said now is the time to step away.

“The hours the pool requires are more difficult for me to do now, and I want to spend more time with my family,” she said. “It is time for me to move on. I have put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into the pool and I love my job, but it is time for a change.”

Synchronization’s owner, Norm Sommerfeld, said Morrow is one of the main reasons the pool hasn’t closed. He said over the years her dedication and passion for the pool and users of the pool is undeniable, and replacing her will be a chore.

Sommerfeld said he is looking at several options to find a replacement, which includes hiring another full-time aquatics director, or possibly a pair of employees to divide up responsibilities.

No matter what, Sommerfeld said, the main goal is to make sure the pool is properly staffed and able to remain open.

“We are going to take our time and strive to keep the pool open,” he said. “The pool is important to the community, especially the kids. We may have to think outside the box a little and mix things up a little from what we have done before.”

Sommerfeld said Morrow and the Alpena County Youth and Recreation Board have helped the pool push through serious financial issues. He said things have stabilized and there haven’t been any financial losses. He said grants also helped the pool’s budget.

“I would say we’re staying even,” Sommerfeld said. “We haven’t lost money and everything is going ok.”

Morrow said when she looks back at her time at the pool, she is proud of the role she played in helping many people learn to swim. She said the swimming lesson programs at the pool are flourishing and hopes they continue to do so.

“Helping people and keeping them safe is one of my passions,” Morrow said. “The pool is important in keeping people healthy and active. Keeping the pool open helps people’s lives tremendously.”