By JONATHAN SNYDER
Parks Department Superintendent Brandy Fiechter presented a request to the Harrison Township Advisory Board for help funding a new pool for Wells County.
During her proposal, Fiechter stated that the most pressing issue for the Parks Department is the community pool, clarifying that a recent survey showed a 98.96% of respondents supported the pool project. Fiechter stated that they are currently in the design process and that any funds from the township will be used as a local match for READI 2.0 grants, a program meant to focus on improvements to quality of place, life and opportunity. If accepted, the grant will match 20% of the invested funds.
A recently signed interlocal agreement between the Parks Department and Harrison Township allows the township to invest funds at their choosing for certain projects.
Previous Park Board meetings mentioned that the pool attracted over 10,000 people during last year’s season, despite major holidays being rained out. Fiechter also noted during budget meetings for Bluffton’s Common Council, that the pool is nearing the end of its life cycle.
Harrison Township’s board showed interest in helping fund the project. While the township board cautioned that interest does not mean a commitment, they recognized the support for the pool and its benefits. With the current pool being 52 years old, some township board members recalled their experiences going to the pool as kids.
“Because you have fun amenities, it draws and attracts people to come to the facilities,” Fiechter said. “Some of the other pools, even in smaller communities, are maxing out within two hours of opening. If we have a lot more fun features we are going to definitely be a draw for economic development and community pride and activities for kids to do.”
The township board will review the proposal and will send back their financial commitment, if any, at a later date.
jonathan@news-banner.com
