Pool planning group advocates for a yes vote Nov. 4

More than 30 business and organization representatives from Greenfield were at a Greenfield Chamber Main Street networking lunch last Thursday when Susie Olesen, a member of the Dive into Project Pool 2027 planning team asked a question of why everyone thought a new swimming pool is important for Greenfield.

Attendees turned to their neighbor, talked about their answers, then shared them with the group. Responses of the informal survey ranged from the convenince of having a pool in such a small community to safety concerns relating to kids knowing how to swim to those who have memories of the pool from when they were children.

Moving forward, a group previously focused on the task of researching feasibilities of building a new pool has now transitioned into the Dive Into Project Pool 2027 team, which is advocating for a “yes” vote for a bond referendum Nov. 4 at the ballot box, with a not-to-exceed amount of $1 million.

What’s the vision?

Group members have said there will be many benefits to having a new pool.

The vision for a new pool is similar to the present pool, but it includes five 25-yard competition swim lanes and two diving boards. It will include zero entry — also known as a beach entry — which is expected to greatly boost accessibility. The pool deck will be larger than the present pool, allowing for outdoor furniture arrangements.

Additionally, a new pool would greatly enhance the efficiency of mechanical systems necessary to operate a pool. The proposed bathhouse and concession stand will include many features that meet accessibility and safety guidelines.

The safety and efficiency of Greenfield’s aging pool are two reasons central to why many feel the town needs a new pool.

The estimated cost of a pool similar to the conceptual drawing is $5-6 million.

According to Greenfield City Administrator Michelle Carns, if the $1 million pool bond is approved, the estimated cost to homeowners is about $51.35 per year for every $100,000 of assessed value — roughly $4.30 per month per $100,000 of assessed value. That means a $150,000 home would include a $77 cost per year, a $200K home a $103 cost per year, on up to a $500,000 home costing $256.75 per year.

The pool commitee is fundraising and will continue to do so. Group members say pledges have already come in to the tune of $1.1 million. Those interested in making a donation or pledge may contact the Greater Greenfield Community Foundation at greatergreenfield@gmail.com; calling 641-745-5904 or by making an online donation at www.greenfieldiafoundation.org.

A storied past

The Adair County Free Press reported in 1942 when the pool opened that its first day was marked with a rapid succession of splashes and the din of shouting. The pool is a place centered on traditions and the pool group hopes that a new pool might allow these traditions to be able to carry on well into the future.

“Both past and present stories are ones of community visioning, creativity, determination and collaboration,” pool committee members said.

In August 1940 when a group of citizens presented to the town council a petition with 600 signatures asking them to sell bonds and a grant application be submitted to the Works Progress Administration to fund a pool on a site previously home to the North Ward School.

“Not everyone agreed the pool was a necessity,” the group said. “Many believed securing the materials and equipment would be challenge.”

A bond vote happened Aug. 27 that year, passing 409-106, and a short time later, the city bought the building and grounds from the school district for the pool. A second vote was taken Nov. 7 that year on a $10,000 bond issue because the bond attorney realized the language on the petition didn’t match up. That vote passed 217-42.

Receiving the WPA grant after two attempts at applying, work started on the new pool in April 1941.

“As feared, many of the materials needed for the pool were top priority supplies requested by the government for war time purposes,” the group found in their research. “Adding a steel fence was the final safety requirement for the pool, so permission was granted to install it after the war.”

The pool opened 1:30 p.m. June 6, 1942.

“This 83-year-old pool is truly a testament to the forward thinking and determination of town leaders and citizens overcoming what were enormous hurdles during a time of sacrifice for our nation,” the group said.

Splashing forward

Should next month’s vote pass, construction would start on a new pool at the end of the next pool season with a grand opening in early summer 2027. This would allow the pool to stay open during the regularly-open time of year.

At the close of 1940, then-Free Press editor Ed Sidey wrote in an editorial that the approval of a new pool was a celebration point of the past year, along with the completion of a new municipal light plant as well as a clubhouse at the country club.

“The torch has been passed through generations of individuals and groups seeking water safety instruction, fun and socialization,” the pool group said. “Because of the hard work by city employees, citizens and volunteers, the pool remains a crown jewel for the city and county. Contributing to Greenfield’s sense of place, it will continue to be the gathering place where safety, socialization and service are celebrated.”