Published Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Supporters of Lynch Park pool make plea to city
The Times-Herald
Even though the issue wasn't on the agenda, a crowd of people went before Newnan City Council Tuesday evening to voice their opinions about the fate of the Lynch Park pool.
Clarence Bohannon, a Newnan community activist, sparked the discussion after council had concluded its business.
"In your consideration of a spray park or a pool, please look at the pool as your first option," said Bohannon. He also suggested the city find a way to have both.
Bohannon said that he and other Newnan citizens were conducting their own survey of what residents in that area say they want and need. He also said he's conducting research and has met with the manager of LaGrange's pool.
"They found a way to accommodate the citizens," said Bohannon.
He said there's been an increase in the number of kids who take advantage of the pool, noting that there were approximately 135 kids at the pool recently.
"I'm here to tell you that the pool has been like the lifeblood for kids that would be hanging out on the corner," he said. "It's not just spending money, it's an investment in the community, and an investment in the kids."
Bohannon personally agreed to mentor at the site, along with others, and see that it remains a clean and safe place for children to congregate.
A woman came before council talking about visiting the pool with her family. She said she wanted there to be a public pool in the city when she starts her own family.
A man told council members that he wants a mega-park with both a pool and a sprayground on the city-owned Alexander property, which is located between Fourth Street, Boone Drive and Sunset Lane. He said the central location would "benefit everyone."
Robert Wood, a former Coweta County Commissioner, called Lynch Park a "community institution."
"It's as centrally located as any spot in Newnan," said Wood. "The area is historical. If at all possible, leave the pool in place."
Finally, the pool manager of more than 20 years addressed council to "speak on behalf of the kids."
"I have managed it with limited resources," he said. "There have been no fatalities there. The parents trust us with their children -- they feel safe. The pool is being used. It would be a disservice to discontinue the only public pool."
He invited council to come for a swim to see for themselves.
Mayor Keith Brady told the visitors that the issue would be on the council agenda on Aug. 25 at 6:30 p.m.