Follansbee considers fate of swimming pool
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FOLLANSBEE -- Though no decision has been made, city officials are preparing for the possible closing of the city's swimming pool and cuts to summer help involved in maintaining its parks.
Mayor David Velegol Jr. said he hopes Gov. Jim Justice and state health officials will make a recommendation on public pools in the near future.
Justice recently ordered a gradual reopening of businesses and other public places, pending support by state health officials. A tentative proposal would allow parks, gyms, fitness centers and other recreation centers to operate in four weeks, provided their patronage be reduced by 50 percent.
But pools and shower and locker rooms at such locations wouldn't be permitted to open.
Follansbee's pool normally opens on Memorial Day weekend, and Velegol said opening later in the summer will mean a significant loss of revenue from the facility.
Velegol said attendance at the pool "typically dies after Community Days."
In recent years city officials have been forced to close the pool before the end of August because many lifeguards are returning to school then.
On Monday Velegol told council members they might be asked at their May 11 meeting whether the pool should be opened this summer. He said council also might consider whether three supervisors are needed for the park if the pool isn't opened.
Velegol added he and City Manager John DeStefano will meet with Gus DiMarzio, one of the three, to discuss the number of summer staff needed.
The mayor said he's concerned some of the workers put in too many hours last year, nearing or exceeding 40 hours when their jobs are intended as part-time, and sometimes performing work he believes should be done by the city's year-round personnel, such as cutting grass near a city water tank outside the city.
Asked if summer help is paid time and a half for overtime, City Manager John DeStefano said it's rare but has occurred.
In related business, Velegol said he's received positive feedback on a city-sponsored banner thanking health care workers, first responders, other essential workers and volunteers for their efforts during the pandemic.
The banner hangs above Main Street near Gilbert Avenue.
In other business, 2nd Ward Councilman Charles McCoy said he would like to see more information shared through the city's new digital app. The app can be downloaded from the website at thecityoffollansbee.com using the Apple App Store and Google Play.
He said recent disruptions in water service and agendas for council's meetings are among things that could have been conveyed through the two media.
Velegol suggested bringing in the designer of the app and website to discuss that.