TOLEDO, OH (Toledo News Now) - A plan to tear down four closed swimming pools is not sitting well with some Toledoans. One councilman is calling for a moratorium on the demolition work.
Councilman Mike Craig held a news conference Thursday morning to rally for an east Toledo pool slated for demolition.
Craig said he does agree with the mayor's office about tearing down the pool at Highland Park. However, he is asking for a postponement on Ravine Park, Collins Park and Ashley Pools, which are all located in District 3.
Nearly two dozen residents joined Craig to voice their opposition to the pool demo plan.
Craig believes the decisions should be put off until voters have their say on a parks and recreation levy on the November ballot. The levy, if approved, could provide some funding to repair the pools.
Also to be taken into consideration is a new recreation master plan, which Craig said could include the pools.
"I cannot believe that you're gonna tear this down, do the dirt work and put up a splash pad for less than $400,000," said Craig.
Those speaking at the conference also pointed out how the city found money to repair Roosevelt Pool, and feel the city should do the same for the pools in east Toledo.
"I feel that they should try to give us a chance and pull our park together and keep the pool open 'cause there's nowhere for these kids to go," said east Toledo resident Theresa Bowen.
Craig blames previous administrations for allowing the pools to get in the state they are in now. He is calling on Mike Bell's administration to take a second look and delay demolition on three of the four city pools.
