The Commission will continue to operate and maintain the pool under an agreement with the village. The organization recently had its non-profit 501-3(c) status reinstated to allow it to receive more opportunities to receive donations, sponsorships and grants.
The 1.4-acre site is valued at about $95,000, according to the Clark County Auditor’s Office.
The ownership change will allow the commission to avoid paying property taxes, said Wendy Russell, a long-time pool board member who was recently elected president.
“It’s an incurred expense we don’t have to worry about anymore,” Russell said. “Due to our funding, it’s very difficult sometimes to make ends meet.”
Discussions between the village and the pool board began about 1 1/2 years ago, said South Charleston Mayor Sam Stucky.
“We forgave their water bill and paid their property taxes so they could start with a clean slate and hopefully keep the gates open,” Stucky said.
The Commission wanted the pool to remain a viable asset for the community, especially as other city around them are closing municipal pools, he said.
“I have memories of growing up and going to the pool,” Stucky said. “The commission wanted to do their part to help children and families have those same memories of having a pool in their home community.”
The pool struggles with finances every year and works hard to make sure it stays open for children and families in the community, Russell said.
“It’s where a lot of their summer memories are made,” Russell said.
Last year, the pool had about 50 members. They’re hoping to have more than 100 members this season, she said.
The pool will open May 23. Admission is free on opening day with a donation of supplies worth at least $2 or more in value. The organization is always looking for donations and volunteers to help the pool succeed, Russell said. It has also received support from local businesses for its annual 5K fund-raiser.
The pool is also offering early bird membership specials through May 25. The cost is $80 for the first member and $25 for each additional member. Beginning May 26, regular season passes will cost $120 for the first member and $25 for each additional member.
The pool is also accepting applications for lifeguards. For more information, log on to the pool’s Facebook page or or visit villageofsouthcharleston.net.
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