Since April 2022, a group of businesses, government entities, foundations, school district, and other invested members have held monthly meetings discussing the need for a new pool while seeking the best location, surveying the community, and discussing the organizational structure and fiduciary agent going forward.

Alpena County commissioners do not want to put money into the 50-year-old pool to repair worn-out or irreplaceable parts. The Plaza Pool continues to be responsible to Alpena County for the rest of the Ameresco energy bond. Yearly operations of the pool are funded by the Youth and Rec grant, Friends of Plaza Pool, user fees, lessons, rentals, and donations. There is nothing specifically designated by the Alpena County budget for the yearly input for the maintenance or replacement of the building, pool, or operations.

The value of the Plaza Pool is understood by many voters and users. Over the past 12 months, there were approximately 36,000 visits, 350 kids completed swim lessons, 78 private rentals were enjoyed, 35 Thunder Bay Schooners practiced and competed at the pool, 240 area second-graders completed Ready/Set/Swim, and we had 21 new Wildcat swim team members who now call the Plaza Pool home. All of this, and more, was accomplished with 10 part-time youth lifeguards, two part-time adult lifeguards/instructors/certifier, one office supervisor/manager, and one director/instructor/lifeguard. The community is using the pool and values the pool for the safety and health of all residents no matter their age.

The Plaza Pool needs your support and consideration as a valued community asset. We cannot afford to lose the only community pool in the region — one in which our seniors, special needs, and youth depend on. We need Alpena County’s leadership and support. The repairs and maintenance will continue without a new community pool.

ANN SKIBA,

Alpena