News Summary

The Natchez Adams County Pool will remain open for seniors throughout September, providing crucial access to swimming and exercise after the Senior Center pool’s closure. Initially set to close post-Labor Day, a recent Board of Supervisors meeting led to the decision that benefits many local senior citizens who depend on the facility. While updates on specific classes are forthcoming, the community is relieved to have this resource available for one more month.

Natchez to Keep Pool Open for Seniors This September!

Good news for the residents of Natchez! The local pool will be extending its hours through September, a decision made during a recent Board of Supervisors meeting. This extension comes as a welcome relief for many senior citizens who have relied on this facility for their daily exercise routines.

Extension of Hours: A Lifeline for Seniors

Originally, the Natchez Adams County Pool was set to close its doors after Labor Day on September 1 for the season, except for select swim team practices. However, this closure would have left numerous seniors without an important resource, as the Senior Center’s pool has been closed since May due to several pressing maintenance issues. With the local Senior Center pool off-limits, seniors were left in a quandary, turning to officials for a solution.

A group of determined older women, avid participants in water aerobics, voiced their concerns at the Board meeting, advocating for the pool’s continued operation. The Board listened, resulting in the decision to keep the Natchez Adams County Pool open to the public from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. throughout the end of September. It stands as a significant extension for those who cherish their daily fitness routines.

What’s on the Schedule?

Although the pool’s extended hours are good news, specifics like the timings for aerobics classes or lap swimming outside these normal hours have yet to be confirmed by Pool Director Sharika Miller. It’s expected that updates will be shared soon, allowing pool enthusiasts to plan accordingly.

One small hiccup: the pool will not be heated due to the high costs that have been described as “astronomical“. This decision raises some eyebrows, but the Board of Supervisors is actively exploring other, more budget-friendly options for pool heating in the future.

Staffing Challenges: Young Lifeguards Come to the Rescue

Staffing has been another issue, particularly as lifeguard positions are often filled by high school or college students who are heading back to school. Yet, two high school seniors have stepped up and expressed their willingness to work during the afternoons. Their courage and commitment will help ensure that the pool can keep its operations afloat, providing a much-desired haven for local water lovers.

A Glimpse into the Future: What About the Senior Center Pool?

While September’s extension provides temporary relief for seniors and lap swimmers, the lingering concern remains the long-term closure of the Senior Center’s pool. This facility has faced multiple challenges, including safety issues due to a leak, carbon monoxide emissions, and chlorination standards that fall below required levels. The Senior Center pool, which dates back to 1913, is in dire need of repair, with estimates suggesting that the costs could surpass $50,000.

Local officials, including the mayor, have raised concerns about the city’s ability to finance these necessary repairs. The suggestion has been made to seek out grant funds to mitigate the financial burden. Meanwhile, the city has been urged to consider alternatives that will provide long-lasting solutions for the seniors who depend on swimming as their chosen form of exercise and recreation.

Final Thoughts

For now, the extended hours at the Natchez Adams County Pool are a breath of fresh air, offering senior citizens a chance to stay active and engaged for another month. It serves as a temporary win while the community continues to brainstorm how best to address the long-standing issues surrounding the Senior Center pool. The spirit of cooperation and community remains strong as everyone hopes for a brighter and swimmier future in Natchez.

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