Swimming won't be completely free at Rusk pool
Apr. 15—Not all swimming at the Rusk swimming pool will be free this summer, despite the council's March approval of no-fee swimming.
Following the council's March decision, the mayor and city manager heard concerns about the free swimming from Stephanie Wick, who was hired to manage the pool. A compromise solution was presented, and approved, at Thursday's meeting, by a narrow 3-2 vote. Zack McNew, representing District 3, and Maxine Session, District 2, were the dissenting votes.
For the 2024 swimming season, there will be two hours of free swim time with the remaining hours costing $2.00 per person. From 10 to 11 a.m., adults will be allowed free lap swimming. From 11 a.m. to noon, a free open swim will be conducted. From noon to 6 p.m., a $2.00 entry fee will be assessed for everyone over three years old. Children age three and younger will be permitted entry for free, but must wear a life jacket at all times.
Parental supervision is required at all times for children under the age of 13.
Parties will continue to be charged based on size and duration.
The pool is scheduled to open Monday, May 27.
Council members revisited the move to once-a-week trash collection. It was reported that complaints about the change were no longer coming in. However, there were residents present who warned the council the summer heat may become a problem with a single pickup each week.
City Manager Amanda Hill noted of Republic's representative Gene Keenon's 26 city area, only three remained on a two-day pickup schedule, without problems.
Should the city change to the twice-a-week pickup, it would not be able to return to the once-a-week schedule for the duration of the contract. The council took no action but will review the issue during the summer months.
The city also approved:
—allowing the city manager to advertise for proposals for administration and planning services for the Resilient Communities Program through the Texas General Land Office;
—the purchase of a hydro jetting sewer system through Patterson Equipment Company, at a cost of $89,643;
—a resolution approving the financing agreement for the fire truck;
—an ordinance abandoning a railroad right of way along U.S. 84/W. 6th Street;
—an ordinance abandoning a portion of Corrine Street;
—a compensation study for city employees to be conducted;
—and the consent agenda, consisting of financial reports and previous meeting minutes.
The city manager mentioned early voting begins Monday, April 22.
Candidates for city council include, for District 3, Zack Mcnew and Martin Holsome; District 4, Martha Neely Jack Woody and J.D. Martinez; and District 5, Frances Long, Shawn Solly and Chucky Pate. Election Day is May 4.
