An important moment for the Lovell swimming pool

Now that the dust has settled on the national General Election with its endless cycle of attack ads, accusations and recriminations, it’s now time to turn our attention to local matters.

One such matter is the future of the Lovell swimming pool. The 46-year-old facility, long past its expected shelf life thanks to the valiant efforts of the School District No. 2 maintenance crew, is gradually falling into disrepair. A dysfunctional air handler has led to the pool shutting down when temperatures turn cold due to a buildup of humidity in the building, and the pool liner is almost paper thin.

The Town of Lovell, which technically owns the building, has worked with District Two for five years or more in an attempt to find a solution, with the two entities funding studies that have pointed out the stark reality that a total replacement is simply too expensive to undertake, and a replacement liner, while cheaper, would still be a monumental cost.

Attention in recent months has turned to a possible outdoor pool, similar to a pool built in Greybull that opened in 2020, but other ideas are also being investigated.

What those involved in the issue really need is input from the people, people who use the pool, have kids in need of swimming lessons or who simply believe that it is vital that a community with a large lake and boating just to the east must be able to offer swimming lessons.

As such, a public meeting has been scheduled for next Tuesday, Nov. 12, at 6 p.m. at the Lovell Fire Hall.

The project planners need ideas, input and a direction to go. Fundraising and public contributions will be critical, from possible grants to local fundraising efforts. It will be important for everyone who believes in the need for a pool to get involved. Many minds make for great ideas, and it’s not just a matter of hoping that someone will write a big check.

But first, public officials and those interested in moving the project forward like promoter David Winterholler need to know the flat-out level of interest in the project. If no one shows up on Tuesday, the message will be heard loud and clear that it may be best to just close the facility and not put good money after bad. But if there is a groundswell of support from the public, the project can move forward with renewed energy and enthusiasm.

Lovell Town Administrator Jed Nebel put it succinctly during an October 21 planning meeting at the community center, calling the effort “One last push for the pool.”

If you want a swimming pool in Lovell, in whatever form, show up Tuesday night.