Paxton Park District Commissioners Matt Quinlan, left, and Craig Kief discuss matters during the board of commissioners’ monthly meeting on Tuesday, July 8, at the Paxton Civic Center, 601 S. Fall St. Andrew Rosten/Ford County Chronicle
PAXTON — The Save the Paxton Pool Committee has disbanded and donated its nearly $41,000 in remaining funds to the Paxton Park District, the district’s board of commissioners learned during its monthly meeting Tuesday, July 8.
The committee, which raised funds to save the public swimming pool at Coady Park from closure on multiple occasions in recent years, left a check totaling $40,912 as a parting gift, reflecting the remaining funds raised by the committee. The funds have been earmarked toward the longevity of the pool.
“We’re hopeful that we’ll keep it running and not need their services again,” Commissioner Craig Kief said.
Board President Matt Quinlan said one of the first things he remembers doing when he started as a commissioner three years ago was attending a Save the Pool Committee meeting.
“One thing I was always impressed with was the dedication of that committee towards all the people in this community,” Quinlan said. “I’m very thankful and very humbled that they have continued to help us. I appreciate it very much.”
Other business
Also at the board’s monthly meeting, held at the Paxton Civic Center, 601 S. Fall St.:
The board tabled approval of the purchase of building materials for a cabana area at the pool. “I would like to see more of a plan,” Quinlan said. “I want to see a plan of how we’re going to use it before we spend $5,000. I like the idea; I would just like more details.”
Meredith Mahon, one of six visitors at the meeting, said she received an email on July 24 informing her that her son was banned from the pool due to an incident that involved multiple children. Mahon said she spoke with her son, who denied the alleged behavior that forced
his banishment but said that another child did the deed and left the pool before the incident was addressed. Quinlan said he would meet with Mahon on Thursday, July 10, to discuss the matter.
Chapman said he ordered chains for the swing set at Coady Park and that once they are received, he will submit an application for reimbursement.
The board approved the payment of bills totaling $19,848.
Chapman said the power recently went out in the pool’s pumphouse — a problem that forced the pool to close on Thursday, July 3. The power was restored that same day.
Chapman said the pool will be open to the public from only 6-9 p.m. Saturday, July 26, due to the pool hosting a conference swim meet that day. Chapman said he expects there to be food trucks and a bounce house at Coady Park during the swim meet.
Chapman said registration for fall soccer opens this week.
n The board tabled approval of hiring a certified public accounting firm to complete the district’s annual audit and financial report to be filed with the state.
The board tabled discussion on pursuing a tax referendum on a future election ballot.