Wadena works to keep pool experience part of summer

WADENA - Retaining a pool experience for young people as a stress reliever was a priority for Wadena city officials.

In a special council meeting Thursday, the city approved a plan to work out the use of area pools for this summer.

"The (Wadena) pool is toast," said Brad Swenson, Wadena city administrator.

After first hearing reports from school board members that the school district may be able to coordinate swimming lessons and open swim times, Swenson said the school superintendent reported the school wouldn't be providing that service, although the district offered to help with busing.

Swenson said swimming lessons were important and he advised hiring Courtney Bernu to coordinate the effort to see what times may be available and when buses could be arranged - perhaps for pool trips several times a week.

Four to five cities have offered use of their pools to Wadena residents. And some have undertaken fundraising efforts to offset costs. Donations may cover the cost of busing. And the city will not have utility and chemical costs associated with its now destroyed pool. The city plans to hire lifeguards for lessons and open swim times as needed.

The Wadena pool has been part of the community since the 1950s.

The city has also been offered help to rebuild its playground by the pool, but officials said they may need to do more long-term planning before making decisions on playground equipment placement.

Youths interested in swimming lessons or open swim may contact Bernu at the city office at (218) 631-7707.

RENEE RICHARDSON may be reached at renee.richardson@brainerddispatch.com or 855-5852.