New Haven News and Comments

Guest Editorial by New Haven City Council President Harold E. West

2009-10-14T22:28:00Z

Tuesday night, October 13th, Councilman West gave this speech to the New Haven City Council and those attending. I thought it was a brave and outstanding speech and wanted to post it where people who were not at the meeting could read it. Hopefully it will make some of our readers think a little. Thanks for letting us publish this Harold. - Craig

First of all, for the first time in my life I will say that, if I offend anyone by what follows in this statement; I will have achieved my goal. I am also for the first time, reading a written statement. Normally, I speak without notes or even outlines. However, in this case, I have thought much about this and want to make sure that each and every point is covered.

Since I became a member of this Council in 2001, I have repeatedly and publicly stated how proud I am to be involved in a municipal government that is so open to public input and participation. I have stated that we can disagree and debate in this chamber and walk away friends and neighbors. I have believed in the fact that all who are here have the best interests of this community at heart. As was once said, “I may not agree with what you say but, I will defend to the death your right to say it!” It is that kind of respect for one another that makes the difference between a community and a political entity.

There is nothing wrong with holding strong, passionate views on any issue. This great country was built on the ability of the people to challenge the path government takes. However, when our passion is driven by egos, anger, or a desire to control through power, it is no longer a constructive exercise of political rights - it is destructive to all that this country stands for and to the very rights that some people use to demand that their side of an issue prevails. In fact, whenever we decide that the ends justify the means, we are adopting the very sentiment of those who are enemies of our precious freedoms.

The Jury Pool debate is one of those issues we have struggled with that has fostered strong feelings on both sides. After much open and heated debate, several plans and proposals scrutinized, this body narrowly did not approve the project citing, in part to the lack of strong public support. The project was brought back to this community and this body was criticized for not taking action to vote again on this project even through the remonstrance process had begun.

I stated that I believed another vote on our part was a waste of time. I stated that this was now “In the hands of the people”. The remonstrance process should have be democracy in its’ finest hour. Both sides presenting their cases and the people decided the fate of the issue by voting through petition for or against the project.

When I saw the signs starting to go up, I wondered about the placement of some that I saw. When I put a political sign in my yard, it’s in my yard and there is no question where I stand. I saw many signs that were right by the street and I wondered if they were placed there by the homeowner or if they were actually placed in the right of way or easement to give the appearance that the homeowner placed it there. I dismissed this as insignificant.

However, it has since become apparent that there are those who are driven by ego, anger, or a thirst for power to believe that the ends do justify the means when it comes to insuring that their side prevails. I was amazed that some seem to have spent more money trying to defeat the project than the taxes they would have spent for several years. It was harder to dismiss the facts when I learned that signs were being stolen. It was impossible to dismiss when the signs now being used by the opponents to this project said, “Vote Blue For Our Pool”, or “Save Jury Pool – Vote Blue”. At the least, this is an attempt to cloud the issue and at the worst, it is out and out deception and fraud. For them to claim innocence in this is to claim ignorance that I, for one, am not buying!

These things, along with stories of people being pressured to sign petitions, people gathering petitions on parking lots and then complaining to the management when persons from the other side show up, or persons being told that they will get information on the pool issue if they sign the petition. These tactics bring shame upon those who perpetrated these deeds and the entire New Haven Community.

I am now given to understand that there is a possibility that, due to the tactics used, there may be a challenge to some of the signatures obtained, meaning that, instead of the issue being decided democratically within our community, it may be decided in a courtroom in Fort Wayne. This issue will once again just drag on and on. And, no matter which side prevails, there will always be a cloud of doubt over the legitimacy of the outcome and a rift in this community that may never be healed.

As disturbing as that is to me, the thing that brings me to express my outrage today is that this is an insult to our founding fathers and the many who have sacrificed so much to give us the freedoms that some would abuse. If we do not treasure our liberties enough to keep these Democratic processes fair for all sides, we stand to lose those freedoms and perhaps, we deserve to lose them.

I do not want (nor do I expect) an apology or an explanation from either side. If you are guilty of any of these acts (no matter which side of this issue you are on) you should go to the nearest cemetery where there is a veteran’s section. You need to look up and down those long rows and explain it or apologize to them. When they gave their all for our freedom, I don’t think this is what they believed they were fighting for.

Now, no matter who wins on the issue of Jury Pool, we have all lost. If we cannot trust our fellow citizens to stand beside us and protect our rights even when we disagree, we will find it hard to stand together on anything. How can we press forward towards the dream of a someday having a community center when we have lost all sense of community? How can we move forward and build leaders for tomorrow when the actions of a few drive people away from the political process instead of encouraging them to participate.

I wonder if, during the remainder of my term on this body, I will be tempted to weigh another factor when making decisions. Do I need to consider whether or not a few vocal dissenters or supporters of an issue will cause further divisiveness in this city? Should I have to consider that the damage that may result from their actions is not worth the risk?

Thirty years ago, you could barely get me to vote – let alone run for public office. As a young man I saw, first hand, politics at its’ worst. I saw the use of deception, fear mongering, and dirty tactics by people who I believed were my leaders. It was many years before I came to the conclusion that it was easy to sit on the outside and criticize. I came back to the system hoping that I could make a difference in some small way.

Indeed, those of us who hold elective office should have our feet “held to the fire” when we fail to keep our actions honorable. However, the system cannot succeed unless all of us, who treasure freedom and love our country, conduct our nation’s, our state’s, and our city’s business with the honor and dignity they deserve.

Sadly, the conduct of a few people has corrupted this remonstrance process. A process that is closest to a referendum to decide an issue that has been heavily debated. Regardless of the final result, the finger pointing and complaining will go on for a long time in the future. Pool or no pool – nobody is going to win!! I am afraid that the damage done by a few people who have no respect for the rights of those who disagree with them will haunt the City of New Haven for a long time.

Soon, someone else will occupy this seat. I pray that they will find the community that I found when I first came to the Council. A community that treats each other with respect. A community where disagreements end in handshakes and pats on the back. A community where dissent and debates will be settled at the ballot box at the end of a fair and open campaign.
I ask everyone on both sides of this issue to examine carefully their role in all of this. Did you keep your part of the pledge that was made in this very room a short time ago that this would be a fair campaign? Did you do your part to give out the facts with honesty and integrity? And, most of all, what can I do now to pull this city back together?

The future of the City of New Haven does not rest on whether or not there is a pool in Jury Park or anywhere else in the city. The future of this city is in our hands. That awesome responsibility falls not just on the persons seated up here – everybody had better commit themselves now to make that future brighter. If we can’t stand together and honor our differences – that future is going to be pretty bleak. Our children will be leading us into the future. What example have we set for them?

Finally, thanks to those on both sides who conducted themselves in a fair and honest manner. Thank you for your contribution and service to this community.

And, to the Park Board – if the blue team prevails on this issue, I would again encourage you to seriously consider the permanent closure of Jury Pool. One year, two years, or even longer from now, this issue will be just as divisive and those who have opposed it now will be even further fueled in their objections by the costs which will surely be much higher no matter what form the project takes. In the meantime, the pool property will continue to be a drain on resources and could very well become an eyesore.

Harold E. West
New Haven City Council President

Guest Editorial - A few thoughts as we enter the final days

2009-10-09T02:17:00Z

I do believe that many of those carrying the blue petitions do want to see Jury Pool open. They do not believe that even after investing 4 years studying and debating this project that neither I nor the Park Board knows what we are doing. They believe that they can do my job better than I can. Blue says they want the pool open but offers no plan other than “No new taxes” and replace it as is. Replacing it as is will still require a tax increase while not addressing the negative impact on our budget. Even though a pool with the same old 1969 design would be ADA compliant and more efficient the operations will still cost the budget $50,000-$60,000 a year and with budget cuts coming in 2011 and 2012 other ways of cutting costs need to be found. We could be forced to close both other pools and possibly several craft sheds and we do not feel that is what is best for our community. Blue has to realize that the decisions we make have consequences. If it was as simple as just fixing or replacing as is don’t you think we would have done that?

It amazes me the things Blue comes up with to oppose this project. How about those offices? This project includes a Head Guard office and a guard room both which we have at the current pool and the Aquatic Directors office which will more efficient to have on site. This one office adds $33,000 to the cost of the project. Should we really stop progress over a $33,000 office? The guard room is heated and can be used 12 months a year to hold additional programs in. I have been accused of going to spend the $64,000 budget savings on whatever I see fit. First the State of Indiana and the City Council has a say in that and how I see fit is to help make my community a better place to live. To bad Blue doesn’t think that way. How about a big Blue sign that says “save jury pool vote blue”? They say that means they are for the pool but it is misleading and no matter how they want to spin it, false. Blue votes insurer that Jury Pool will be closed for a least two more years and could very well force the closing of the other two pools when Jury Pool can finally be reopened.

As we enter the final few days of this process I would like to thank the many volunteers who have carried Yellow petitions, those who have generously donated funds to provide yard signs and radio commercials and many, many thanks to those of you who believe in our community and the Parks Department and supported us by signing a Yellow petition.

I do believe this race is still to close to call and every vote counts. If you haven’t signed a Yellow petition yet please stop by New Haven Print and Copy Friday Oct 9^th or Monday Oct 12^th between 8am-5pm to sign, look for Yellow petition carriers out this weekend or contact us at www.savejurypool.com

Mike Clendenen

Superintendent

New Haven-Adams Township Parks Dept

Guest Editorial by Mary Franco - JURY POOL BUILDS PRIDE

2009-10-08T17:45:00Z

As the President of the New Haven Swim Team, I would like to respond to the question about what we did this past swim season. Historically, the Barracudas have had their swim practices, swim meets and the NH Invitational at Jury Pool. Our swim parents and the over 300 families that come to the NH Invitational do business in our community while their swimmers are in the pool or visit one of many restaurants after the meets are over.

This year since Jury was closed we were graciously offered New Haven Pool to practice in. As everyone knows, New Haven Pool is a much smaller pool. We have gone from a 6 lane pool to a shorter, 3 lane pool. There were problems with overcrowding and swimmers getting kicked from being in too close of proximity to each other. It was impossible to work on endurance or speed because of the traffic jams at the end of each lane. New Haven Pool is also not set up for the swim blocks thus we were limited in how to work on beginning dives.

Over the past four years, our swim team progressed from League III to League I, which is an awesome accomplishment for a city whose school system does not offer a competitive swim opportunity. We grew from 50 swimmers to over 80 swimmers on our team. This was our year at League I, which puts us against all of the most competitive teams in the surrounding areas. With the environment that we had, our kids were unable to build up the skills they needed to compete competitively. We are placed in League III for this next year. Sadly, it is a fact that it will be difficult to maintain a team without being able to host meets. We need to be able to provide our swimmers with a pool where they can work on strokes, dives, endurance and to be the best that they can be.

Jury Pool has provided more than entertainment to the masses. I have personally seen children of all levels of skill and abilities learn to have pride in themselves and what they have accomplished. We have many children with disabilities who have learned to compete against themselves and thus learn a vital life lesson on striving for their personal best, no matter what place they come in.

There is much debate on the best plan for Jury Pool. If I needed guidance on something of importance, I would go to professionals who study this and would be able to give me evidence based data so that I could make an informed decision. The Park’s Department has done just that by consulting experts in the field. The data is there to support the renovations being recommended. We as a community need to support Jury Pool, let it move forward and have a place in our future and the future of our children. Vote YELLOW for our community and our children.

Mary Franco

Guest Editorial - Look to the Future - Vote YES!

2009-10-06T20:46:00Z

As has been demonstrated to me through more than 3 weeks of "campaigning" and gaining signatures for this project, the citizens of New Haven - of all ages - are counting on the New Haven City Council's leadership to move forward towards the vision of a bright future for Jury Pool & Park! VOTE YES! for the quality of life and enhancement of this great community!

Our slogan: "Save Jury Pool" is positive, hopeful, looking to the future. Whereas, The Blue Team's slogan: "Vote No" - "For no new taxes." Negative - not looking to enhance the future of our residents, downplaying the "real" cost of procrastinating (once again) and the true costs that would be spent if we went with their plan - which really - isn't a plan - because it is not documented, there are no hard figures - just numbers they are putting out there.

Of course, why would anyone want any "new" taxes, unless they knew the whole story; the real facts - not taken out of context, or exaggerated,or as is very common to hear - not "mis-represented", as I hear constantly from people who have talked with the "Blue" team representatives.

We must look to the future - as the improvements to Jury Pool are way over-due and putting a band-aid on it - as the"Blue Team" wants to do -- will take a tax increase, too ... they just don't tell you that during their campaigning. If we follow their plan - minimal improvements - "just put Jury Pool back the way it was"- we'll be having this same conversation in 5 or 10 years - and then -how much will it cost us? And, how will we, as a community look after having made such a foolhardy and costly mistake? That is why the New Haven City Council's leadership and willingness, vision and strength to move forward with this project is so critical.

New Haven is known for its conservatism, but the very name of our community "New Haven" shows that the history of this community has been a haven for many people. Let's not short-change the next generation or two by giving them a "second-rate" place to go - when there are so many positives to be gained by taking this Jury Pool & Park to the next level, on a relatively inexpensive per family cost.

The City of New Haven will lose if Jury Park loses. It is a diamond in the rough. New Haven has grown - our parks are trying to grow with the new needs we have. Moving into a great tomorrow for our citizens - young and old -is a step we need to take by voting "yes" for Jury Pool.

Anna Bowman

New Haven Resident

A Letter From Mayor McDonald

2009-10-05T20:01:00Z

The Jury Pool project has been a highly debated topic in our community over the past three years. With a remonstrance currently in progress, we’ve seen volunteers carrying yellow petitions in favor of the project, and volunteers carrying blue petitions against the proposed project. I’ve heard many people, on both sides of this issue, express their concerns, desires, and offer their own solutions.

I agree that this process has taken a very long time for a decision to be made. In July of 2008, a decision was made to temporarily place this project on hold and allow residents to bridge the divide in the community. As Mayor of this city, I felt it was in the best interest of all concerned to stop the dispute and bring the people back together for a common cause,which is to improve the community through our Parks and Recreation programs.

Some have said that the local government has been weak concerning this situation. Residents should keep in mind that despite how the City Council would have voted on this issue, a remonstrance would have happened anyway.

I’ve heard opponents to this project state that they are not against the pool; however, they are against any new taxes and the proposed size of the project. The annual tax impact on a home with a $100,000 assessed value would be $17.69 (or $1.47 each month).

Some say we don’t need such a big pool, to that I respectfully say you are wrong.The local cinema industry shows us very clearly that the old one and two screen movie houses could not compete for the attention of the consumer. After all, people want government to operate like a business, so any good business knows they must update, remodel,increase space and product to stay competitive. The proposed project will accomplish that and keep our Parks and Recreation program up to speed with the expectations of the consumer and the youth of our community.

I’ve heard concerned residents say we cannot afford such an elaborate proposal. The Park Board has decreased the project by over one million dollars. If you are going to update or repair such an asset, you need to include some additional amenities to encourage additional usage. I applaud the Park Board for compromise of the current plan. The City of New Haven has an approved bond rating from Standard and Poors of A+ and AA-. These are very good ratings for a community of our size. Some say we have too much debt. If you look at our debt, we have very little property tax debt.

New Haven has recently been recognized as the second most affordable community in the United States to live in according to CNN/Money Magazine. Where were the blue petition carriers when that news came out? As a community, we have made tremendous strides in the last ten years. During this time, we have added a wonderful river green way, completed a downtown renovation and streetscape project, and accomplished neighborhood improvements including streets, sidewalks, trees and curbs, and complied with the Clean Water Act by separating our sewers which will help keep our river and streams clean. We have installed new water lines to improve our fire protection and further enhance the quality of our drinking water. All of these things have led to business expansions and relocations. There are so many good and positive things going on in our community. Now is not the time to obstruct progress! Maintenance of the “status quo” takes our city backward. Friends, New Haven is not a community that intends to fall backward. We are “A Hometown Community Growing for Tomorrow.”

I have always said that when life throws a road block in your way, you go over, around, under or through whatever hinders forward progress. We remember our heritage and those who led us in days gone by and rejoice in their work that made it possible for us to live in such a wonderful community. It is this generation who will carry on the traditions passed down to us by our forefathers and be the citizens future generations will look back upon with fond respect for what we provided them. Remember, it takes courage and thoughtful effort to build something. Yes, it is easy to say no, but simply saying no produces nothing. If our ancestors had taken the “no” position, we wouldn’t have the wonderful community that has been our home for so many years. So, I ask all you who have a desire to see New Haven continue to grow and prosper, to be a city for tomorrow and a community that becomes the destination of new families and business, please join with me in support of the Jury Pool Project and sign YELLOW for a better tomorrow, for our future, and for our families.

Respectfully,

Mayor Terry E. McDonald
City of New Haven

NOW is the time to Save Jury Pool

2009-10-04T20:41:00Z

Dear Neighbors,
As you know, the Jury Pool issue has been a hot topic for the past three years. The current proposal is the third plan the Park Department has brought to the City Council. It's not extravagant as the blue team insists. The Jury Pool/Park renovation is a well thought out plan. It has enough features to be attractive to today's families, will be constructed to last, and meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Repairing the existing pool at this point is a poor economic idea. The Park Department has been patching and repairing Jury Pool for years. It's just too old and worn out. If the residents of New Haven want Jury Pool to re-open, this is the best plan - and from everything we've heard, it seems most people want it to re-open.
From the beginning, we've tried to stay positive about this whole remonstrance process. Unfortunately it's brought out the worst in some people. Some members of the blue team have made a habit out of pulling numbers out of the sky and basically spreading misinformation to get residents to sign blue. The stories we've heard recently are unbelievable. The past two Sunday Journal Gazettes have featured disturbing stories about the blue team. Last week it was about our 3rd District Councilman driving his illegal golf cart on city streets and pressuring residents to vote blue. What an embarrassment to our district, to the City Council and our entire community. This week the headline was "Saving Jury Pool issue swimming in confusion". To quote from the Political Notebook by Niki Kelly and Benjamin Lanka ..."Apparently the blue side liked yellow's slogan so much, they've decided to make "Save Jury Pool" their own."

The Blue petitions clearly state on the front page:
IN OPPOSITION OF the renovation and additions to Jury Pool.

The Yellow petitions clearly state on the front page:
IN FAVOR OF the renovation and additions to Jury Pool.

   Why would the blue team do things like this unless they're just trying to confuse the issue - or they're just totally desperate. They say they want to reopen Jury Pool, but they also are promising people that if they sign blue, their taxes won't go up. So on one hand, they want to repair Jury Pool for their "plucked out of the sky" $2 million dollar price tag, and on the other hand, they're promising people it won't cost them anything. What world do these people live in? They've taken the $4.1 million dollar project and projected what it would cost with interest over 20 years - somewhere in the $7 million dollar range. If we do the same with their imaginary $2 million dollar project, we're looking at $4 million dollars over 20 years. Both plans would require a bond to complete the project. How can blue state "No New Taxes"?
   The hard truth is that if the blue signatures win over the yellow, it will kill or delay the pool opening for at least another two or three years. The Park Department wouldn't be able to bring up any revised plans to the City Council for at least a year after the remonstrance is over. Then all this mess would just start over again. For blue to say they want to save Jury Pool is just wrong.
   Another falsehood they're throwing out is that renovating Jury Pool will kill the community center. That is a totally separate issue and has nothing to do with Jury Pool. The true fact is if New Haven wants a decent community center, it's going to take corporate sponsorships and grants. If I was a corporate sponsor (and actually we are), I wouldn't even consider investing my money into a community that won't invest in itself. This project is very minimal in cost for the benefits it will bring to our community.
    Again, most of you have heard both sides. You'll just have to decide who is telling the truth. All the numbers for the project have been out there since the beginning. If you want to see a breakdown of all the construction costs, Mike at the Park Department would be glad to make you a copy. He also has numbers posted on www.savejurypool.com and the same lists are at www.newhavenbulletin.com.
If you haven't been approached to sign a yellow ballot and you'd like to, please let us know. You can call me at 460-7161 or Jane at 417-5381 to have someone stop by your home, or you can stop into my business - New Haven Print & Copy across from McDonald's in New Haven. We're open from 8 to 5 weekdays.
   If you feel you've been misled to sign blue - or changed your mind, we can take care of that. Let us know and we'll have a Notary Public stop by your home to change your vote. You can also attend the meeting on Wednesday night, October 7th at New Haven Elementary School. We'll be meeting in the cafeteria from 6:30 to 7:30.You can sign the yellow ballot or get a blue vote changed that night. The last day to sign yellow is Monday, October 12th.

Thanks for listening.
Craig and Jane Dellinger.

Guest Editorial - Caught Blue Handed

2009-09-28T02:09:00Z

Speaking of the "flip-flopper"...
Quoting from today's JG political notebook "Caught blue-handed:
New Haven City Councilman Roger Clayton admits that he was caught red-handed. Or maybe that’s blue-handed.
Not long after the city council decided not to allow golf carts on city streets, a New Haven officer stopped Clayton for driving his golf carton a city street.
He was not given a ticket but told to take the cart home. Clayton, a Democrat, was about two blocks away from his house and was collecting blue petition signatures to fight the Jury Pool project at the time. He even had a blue “vote no” sign on top of the cart, he said.
Clayton has no regrets about supporting the blue petition takers, although he has been slapped on the hand for that, too.
During Tuesday’s council meeting Clayton defended his efforts after residents complained that he and other council members shouldn’t be actively taking petitions for either side."

Really? This is what is becoming news for the Fort Wayne paper. We are electing "leaders" that are making New Haven the laughingstock of the area.

On a separate topic... I think it is important to remember who is being the true stewards of tax dollars here. One of the best studies I've seen in all the research that was produced by the aquatic advisory committee's efforts was already presented at a council meeting but also ignored or forgotten. It was done by Aquatic Design Group- a firm that builds pools and it classified facilities from all over the country into groups based on the % of recreation space vs. competition space.Overwhelmingly, the pools with more recreation space recovered more of their operating costs and had the best chance of having a net operating income. Right now, and if it were to be build exactly the same way, Jury would be classified as a competition facility with 33% or less of its area used for recreation. Pools in this class on average only recovered 24% of their operating costs. On the other hand, recreation facilities recovered 123%- Yes, made money. Blue likes to criticize the reasoning behind the scale of this project, but yellow is not making up these numbers- they come from real research. Which type of facility would you rather have your tax dollars go towards?

Kara Laughlin

Guest Editorial by Anna Bowman - Letter to New Haven's City Council

2009-09-25T14:48:00Z

The citizens of New Haven - of all ages - are counting on your leadership to move forward towards the vision of a bright future for Jury Pool & Park! I urge you to: VOTE YES! ~ For the quality of life and enhancement of our great community!

Our slogan: "Save Jury Pool" - is positive, hopeful - looking to the future. ~ The Blue Team's slogan: "Vote No" - "For no new taxes." Negative - not looking to enhance the future of our residents, downplaying the "real" cost of procrastinating (once again) and the true costs that would be spent if we went with their plan - which - really - isn't a plan - because it is not documented, there are not hard estimates - just numbers they are putting out there.

Of course, why would anyone want any "new" taxes, unless they knew the whole story; the real facts, not taken out of context, or exaggerated, or as is very common to hear - not "mis-represented", as I hear constantly from people who have talked with the "Blue" team representatives.

We must look to the future - as the improvements to Jury Pool are way over-due and putting a band-aid on it - as the "Blue Team" wants to do -- That will take a tax increase, too..........they just don't tell you that. If we follow their plan - minimal improvements - "just put Jury Pool back the way it was plus what has to be done for ADA rules" - we'll be having this same conversation in 5 or 10 years - and then - how much will it cost us? And - how will we, as a community look - after having made such a foolhardy and costly mistake? That is why your leadership and willingness, vision and strength to move forward with this project is so critical.

New Haven is known for its conservatism, but - the very name of our community "New Haven" shows that the history of this community has been a haven for many people. Let's not short-change the next generation or two by giving them a "second-rate" place to go - when there are so many positives to be gained by taking this Jury Pool & Park to the next level, on a relatively inexpensive per family cost.

I have been a resident of New Haven since 1998. Before that - I lived in Fort Wayne for 12 years. But, .... where do you think I brought my kids to swim in the summer? Jury Pool! The pool was fun, the guards were strict and I knew my kids were in a great environment. The cost - $.50 or a $1.00! Very inexpensive. The reality is - the cost should have gone up incrementally over the years - due to a variety of increasing expenses, but, it didn't and so here we are today - it may be sticker shock to have to pay $3.50 - $4.00 each, or get a family membership, but - my goodness - the value you get - compared to what you'd pay at a Fort Wayne Parks pool - no comparison! Let alone the overall enhancement to our quality of life. There are so many more pros than cons in moving forward with this project.

The City of New Haven will lose - if Jury Park loses. It is a diamond in the rough - if only everyone would recognize it! New Haven has grown - our parks are trying to grow with the new needs we have. Moving into a great tomorrow for our citizens -young and old - is a step we need to take - by voting "yes" for Jury Pool.

Thank you.
Anna Bowman
Resident of New Haven, IN

No New Taxes! - and Misc. Ramblings

2009-09-25T01:22:00Z

   OK, when you read that headline, you're probably thinking WHAT? Is Craig flip flopping like you-know-who? No, it's just frustrating hearing all the comments being tossed around about the Jury Pool issue. I thought it would be fun to discuss what's been thrown around lately. I've been consistent in my opinions for the past 3 years - for better or worse. My wife and I really appreciated Jury Pool when our son was growing up. He learned how to swim, enjoyed the pool and park during the summer, and basically had a great time. Jury Pool wasn't why we moved to New Haven, but it was a much appreciated feature. We both feel that the young families living in and moving to New Haven deserve the same opportunity for their children to enjoy wholesome entertainment, exercise and learning how to be safe in the water. And we're willing to "pay it forward" for the future of New Haven kids.

   Back to "No New Taxes!" That's the slogan of the Blue Team. They say that they're not against Jury Pool. Actually they're 100% FOR the pool. Let's give them the benefit of the doubt and accept that they believe that. They want the pool but they don't want the current plan. They've stated that the pool could be redone for $2 million dollars or less. I'm not sure when the Blue Team became Aquatics and Construction experts, but I haven't seen an estimate in the past three years from qualified people stating those numbers. The funny thing is - even if the Park Board figured out how to do it for $2 million dollars - where does that money come from? Wouldn't we need a bond to pay for that? Wouldn't that be a new tax? How can you say "No New Taxes" when you're proposing a plan that would raise taxes? Makes me go hmmmm.

   OK, let's say the Blue plan will only cost $2 million dollars. It would be silly to add on the interest over 20 years, or the architectural fees, bonding costs, etc. We only do that if we're talking the Yellow plan. Considering that if the Blue Team delays the pool (or forever kills it), it most likely will never be cheaper than right now to build a project. Construction costs are bottomed out. Interest rates are low. If the economy is really turning around like the government has announced, that will induce inflation and higher interest rates. We'll probably never be able to do this project as economically as right now. The results? Less bang for our bucks. The yellow project would increase taxes approximately $14.00 a year for a median priced home in New Haven. The blue plan might cost 1/2 that. So a median home owner could save $7.00 a year. Will that make a huge difference in the economic stability of New Haven families? I'm thinking not.

   The Blue Team has been slamming the survey the Park Board put out. Twisting the results every which way but how it simply reads. I guarantee the survey was legitimate, well documented, and statistically conclusive. The Park Board consulted with an expert on how to produce the survey for the most accurate - fair results. My business produced and mailed the survey to addresses randomly provided by a national mailing list company (InfoUSA). About 80% of the households in New Haven were covered. Blue has complained that businesses weren't sent the surveys. That's correct, but a lot of the business owners in New Haven LIVE in New Haven. I've talked with owners of some of the largest business in town, and they've been overwhelming for the plan. Economic Development helps everyone. And the business owners know they'll carry a chunk of the burden. A lot of the comments I've heard about the survey are completely ridiculous and unfounded. Bordering on desperate.

   Blue is complaining that the Park Department made the decision to send back a very expensive pump and not open the pool for 2009. It would have been foolish to try and patch the pool any more. Just drive by and look at the way the pool is heaved up and a jungle is starting to grow from the bottom of the pool. Enough is enough and it's silly to keep patching and putting money into something that just isn't going to last. The list of things wrong with the pool had grown to the point of no return. And that's not because it hadn't been taken care of - it's just old.

    One good thing that's coming out of this fiasco is neighbors pulling together. Of course there are neighbors who are ready to kill each other too, but I haven't seen people talking to each other this much in the 30 years I've lived here. We started a Save Jury Pool group on Facebook about two weeks ago. As of this afternoon, we had over 450 members. That shows some passion and hopefully it will continue. Activity on this blog, the Facebook group, and on the New Haven Bulletin (www.newhavenbulletin.com) has been fun to read. I hope when it's all over, we can agree to disagree and move the community forward. The Yellow Team means well. The Blue Team means well. We disagree on some things, but we're still New Haven neighbors. Let's try to remember that.

Craig

Jury Pool Guest Editorial by Ken Wilkinson

2009-09-21T21:08:00Z

Sign yellow petitions to renovate Jury Pool

I urge the citizens of New Haven and Adams Township to sign the yellow petition in favor of the plan to improve Jury Pool.

As the Parks and Recreation director for New Haven and Adams Township for more than 12 years, I can write confidently that the majority of people are in favor of an updated swimming pool. While working for New Haven, I talked with many people, and I listened to what they had to say regarding parks and recreation in the community and worked hard to bring to reality their requests. I heard, over and over, three central themes: 1) “Thanks for the New Haven River Greenway”; 2) “When are we going to build a community recreation center?”; and 3) “What are we going to do about Jury Pool?”

During my tenure, the city conducted a scientific survey. Despite what the critics have said about the survey, it was a great survey, written and administered with assistance from a scientist who specializes in surveys. We were told by opponents of the Jury Pool project that the survey was too complicated and that we would never get any returned. We had 33 percent of the surveys returned, which is a fantastic return of surveys.

The survey gave great insight into what the people wanted, and more than 86 percent said that they wanted Jury Pool to be renovated or replaced, even if it meant a slight increase in property taxes. Of the respondents, more than 80 percent were homeowners who will realize a slight property tax increase.

In my current position as parks and recreation manager for the city of Yakima, Wash., I have seen increased use of our park facilities and programs because of the difficult economy. People are staying home but continue to want recreation.

Now more than ever, people need recreation near their homes. We need places that are positive in our communities; places that add to the vitality of our communities; places that make us proud to live in a community, whether that is in Indiana or Washington; places that we love and help define who we are as a community; places that give us opportunities to be physically active; places that help us create wonderful memories with our families; places where we can teach people, not just children, how to swim and be safe around water – and Jury Pool is one of those places.

Now is the time for citizens of New Haven and Adams Township to stand up, sign the yellow petitions and be counted for renovating Jury Pool. Some people in the community have stated that they speak for citizens and say they do not want the pool to be replaced or renovated. If they do not speak for you, then sign the yellow petitions and get this project moving forward.

The opponents have done a great job of causing confusion regarding the project, and they have been successful in placing roadblocks in the way. But this is your time. Please do not wait for the petitions and some of the negativity to come to you. Seek out the petitions and get them signed.

Thanks to all of those who have continued to fight for Jury Pool. They are a credit to their community.

Ken Wilkinson

Jury Pool Guest Editorial by Adam Welch

2009-09-18T19:31:00Z

Sign Yellow and Save Memories

There are no years more crucial to who we truly become than our days of childhood. The memories we shape, the friends we make, and the adults who mold us during these formative years cannot be overstated.

From the age of seven to my early twenties, the majority of my summers were spent at Jury Park. While I grew up in northeast Fort Wayne, my sister was a lifeguard at the pool, and when not annoying her co-workers, I learned to play the game of tennis at the courts located adjacent to the pool. Years later, I earned my first job at the age of sixteen as a tennis instructor and returned each summer for five years. Simply put, Jury Park didn’t just provide memories for me, it changed my life.

Currently New Haven residents have a choice which path they want to take—one which will continue a path of resistance and stagnancy, or one which will create memories and perhaps even change lives for future generations.

What’s at stake is not just new pool—it is the heart of a neighborhood and the attraction point of a community. New Haven has the chance to create a gem for their residents. While I admittedly cannot sign the yellow petition due to my place of residence, I only hope that others will read this and represent not just my voice but my childhood.

Perhaps it is difficult to understand how a pool and park can change one’s life, but that is exactly what Jury Park did for me. I made childhood friends, learned to swim and play tennis, and earned my first job there. New Haven children and families deserve this, so I please ask for your support in saving Jury Pool by signing the yellow petition. To me, the greater risk is not signing it because one lost memory is one too many.

Adam Welch

Jury Pool - Guest Editorial by Mike Clendenen

2009-09-10T12:43:00Z

To residents in the New Haven-Adams Township Parks District

Thursday, September 10th will be a historic day for the New Haven-Adams Township Parks Dept. It is the first time that we will be involved in the petition and remonstrance process and for the first time registered voters will be able to participate along with property owners. After three years of debate, the fate of Jury Pool will finally be decided. Two years ago we presented a $5.5 million in construction cost plan to replace Jury Pool to the New Haven City Council that was rejected. We reduced the plan to $4.5 million and then finally to the current $3.5 million in construction costs that will require us to borrow $4.1 million including the costs of the bond. With the median home price in New Haven at $89,152 the cost to the average household will be a $14 per year property tax increase. Jury Pool has served the area very well for 40 years but now needs to be replaced. Like many government agencies we are faced with an increased demand for services while dealing with increased costs and shrinking revenues. The Parks Department spent over $134,000 last year operating our pools and while we are providing a service we need to lessen this negative impact to our budget. Continuing to repair the pool or replace it with the same 1970 design will jeopardize operating the other 2 pools and the playground craft sheds that many children depend on in the summer. The New Jury Pool we are planning will be more efficient, have more entertainment value, encourage families to come more often, stay longer and be active. Park Departments are on the front lines when it comes to battling obesity especially in children and we need to provide facilities that encourage children to get outdoors away from computers, television and video games. Sadly when we are needed most, there are still too many federal, state and local officials along with some taxpayers who believe that parks and recreation are a frivolous and unnecessary expense.

I encourage New Haven High School students to become involved by debating this issue in the school newspaper, holding a voter registration drive and if you are 18 years or older and not registered to vote then do so. All property owners and voters in our park district should exercise their right to have a say in our community whether they are for or against the pool plan. If you would like to sign a blue petition against the pool or a yellow petition for the pool call me at 749-2212 and I will provide you with contact phone numbers for either side.

I truly believe I am doing the right thing supporting this project. I believe our Park Board is committed to providing a great community with a great park system. I believe that this is the right project at the right time. I believe that we cannot ask businesses to invest in our community if we are not willing to invest in ourselves. I believe that $1-$2 per month is a great investment in our future and I believe that for some against this pool project it has become more about the fight and not about the pool.

Believe!

Mike Clendenen
Superintendent
New Haven-Adams Township Parks Dept

Jury Pool - Guest Editorial by Kara Laughlin

2009-09-10T12:38:00Z

I could easily rehash all of the reasons a new Jury Pool is good for New Haven, but the opposition has just one reason it is bad- it increases taxes. Their blue signs say it all. They have a scare tactic to go after your pocketbooks. They don’t even say what you’re voting “no” for. And what they certainly will not tell you is that it averages just about one dollar a month per household. Whether you would use the pool or not, this is a small price to pay for an investment in our city.

    The opposition to the pool has also started spreading the rumor that if we build a new pool, we will not get a community center. This is not true. The whole pool/community center debate started back in 2005 when the park department knew that Jury Pool was not going to make it through many more seasons. This was not because it wasn’t taken care of, but because concrete and machinery does not last forever. At that time it formed an advisory committee to research ideas on what to do, and I was fortunate enough to be on that committee.

    We did research the whole possibility of an indoor pool but we found several things: It is not just a little more expensive to build, it is WAY more expensive to build. It also costs more to maintain because not only are you heating the pool, but also the air in a huge room, lighting a huge room, and the chlorine damages the whole big room. Our research also showed that even indoor pools are not used as much as you would think in the winter months because the kids are back in school and doing school activities and other sports. You would be paying to staff and run a facility that rarely gets used during the day.

    So after discussing all of this, we decided to keep an indoor recreation facility and Jury Pool separate. In addition, the community survey supported keeping a pool at Jury AND building a community center, so we know there is interest in both. (Out of 1191 responders 50% wanted both; the rest supported just one or nothing at all.)

    Work on a community center is still in progress, as far as I know. I believe it’s possible that if we can get the pool project to go through, the community center will be MORE LIKELY to get built because it would demonstrate to potential donors that citizens are willing to make an investment in their community first. Basically, who would want to throw money into a big community project if you know citizens don’t even support community improvements?

    Back to the pool…Then comes the debate on what to put at Jury since it has passed the point of patching and repairs. It costs almost as much to replace it exactly as is (some improvements would still have to be made to meet modern code and ADA specs.) And the survey also showed that people would NOT pay more to swim at a new facility unless it had more features. Research from around the country shows this same thing. To draw people in and break even, or to make money in a season, you have to have more amenities.

    I encourage people to ask the blue team for their evidence, concrete numbers, references and research on the project. The park department has theirs.

Be wary if you want to sign against a new pool. Learn the real facts first at savejurypool.com. Vote yes and sign the yellow petition. Support the future of New Haven and Adams Twp.

Kara Heine Laughlin

Saving Jury Pool is important for residents AND businesses.

2009-09-03T14:39:00Z

This is a guest editorial. If you'd like to publish a guest editorial instead of commenting, please email it to me at blog@newhavenprint.com. Guest Editorials must be signed.

I hope the people of New Haven come forward and approve this renovation. The Parks Department used to be one of the integral selling points for new residents AND new businesses. MANY people were impressed with the parks system and the abundance of quality of life. Some people have forgotten the importance of small community quality of life, where they raised their children. Businesses value community amenities when they are looking to relocate or open new facilities. Many young adults have moved back to New Haven when they started raising children so they could partake in this community because they felt it was such a great place to grow up. Some of the naysayers should actually participate and view the activities that take place,view the excitement of children and actually listen to the parents AND children. If the naysayers actually grew up or raised their children in New Haven, they need to reach into their memories and think back what it was like to be a child or young parent. What was exciting and enjoyable to them? Did they or their children go to Jury Pool? Did they take swim lessons at Jury Pool? Did they join the swim team or have birthday parties at Jury Pool? Our past leaders had the vision to grow the parks and recreation so residents could actually stay in New Haven to enjoy these activities. This is a very unique community and the progress made now will go a long way to secure the small-town flavor with big-town vision.

Jayne Bailey

OK, Let's Fire Up the Jury Pool Discussion Again.

2009-08-27T20:29:00Z

I've been neglecting this blog for over a year. Mostly because of being too busy to maintain it. I'll try to do better. Our community has to make a decision soon. The decision to proceed with the renovation of Jury Park/Pool has been turned over to the remonstrance process. Starting in September, residents of New Haven will have the opportunity to sign a petition FOR or AGAINST the project.

Amanda Iacone from the Journal Gazette wrote a good balanced article on the Council meeting last Tuesday night.
http://www.journalgazette.net/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090826/LOCAL/308269986

There are also photos from the meeting at the New Haven Bulletin site.
http://www.newhavenbulletin.com/

There has been a website developed to provide information on the pool project. It has the estimated costs, drawing of the proposed pool renovation and information on the petition drive. Please visit it.
http://www.savejurypool.com

As I have been for the past three years, I'm still in favor of proceeding with the project. I think the cost is justified considering the potential economic development and the fact that the new pool will give kids a place to go in the summer and learn how to be safe in the water.

I'm hoping we can get a discussion going again on the pros and cons of doing this project. I've never claimed to have all the answers, and it's interesting to hear other people's opinions. The blog will be moderated. I won't allow personal attacks to be published. I think it's pretty clear that most everyone wants a pool. We just have differing opinions on what we need and how to get there. This community is a great place to live and raise a family. We can't let an issue like this split everyone up. People are entitled to their opinions and I'll be glad to publish both sides.

Do you think it will hurt the progress on the Community Center?

Is $17.69 per $100,000 assessed property value too much to pay for this project?

Do you think people will use the pool more with the proposed added amenities?

Did you and/or your children ever use and enjoy Jury Pool?

Are you ready for a decision - one way or another?

Thanks,
Craig

Jury Pool - misc. thoughts and ideas

2008-06-03T12:07:00Z

   First off, thanks to everyone who has contributed to this blog. I think it's important to hear both sides of an argument. I truly don't think either side has a perfect solution. We'll just have to agree to disagree on some specifics. I also feel that even if a person works for the Park Department, their opinion is just as valid and important as some who doesn't. Saying that someone is "for" an issue because it affects their job is an accusation against their character. That just isn't right and sounds a little bit desperate.

   The Park Department Survey went out to 4,527 homes. This list was generated by an outside company (InfoUSA) who is one of the largest sales leads / mailing list companies in the world. It would have been great to have a list of every single person who this project touches, but that just wasn't available. The City of New Haven has around 5,500 households. That means that the survey hit close to 80% of our citizens. Perfect? No. Scientifically valid? Absolutely.

   Out of the 4,527 surveys sent out, over 1,400 were returned. A response rate of over 30% in a survey like this is incredible. My company printed, assembled, and mailed the survey. When Ken brought it to the shop, I spent some time trying to talk him into making it shorter. I honestly didn't think that many people would take the time needed to read and fill it out. He proved me completely wrong. I think it just showed how passionate the people of New Haven are about Jury Park and the need to keep it a vital part of our community.

   One of the questions was a choice to rank the Most Desired Choice of what to do with Jury Pool. The options were: remove the pool; replace it with a splash pad; replace it with a smaller pool; replace it with the same size pool; and replace it with added features. There were 1,167 people who answered this question. Out of those 449 picked "Replace it with Same Size Pool" and 434 picked "Replace it with Added Features". That makes 883 people or 76% of the people who answered that question wanting the pool replaced. There have been comments that at the public meetings, half or more of the people were against the project. I'll go along with that. The reality is that the public has already spoken with the survey. Is it remotely relevant to compare 20 or 30 people that don't want the project against the 883 that said they did? Even if you just pull the 434 who wanted the pool with added features, that's still a huge majority of opinion.

   Let's consider the two proposals: Option #2 is to replace the pool with some added features. It's the plan described in my earlier post. The cost is estimated at $4.4 million dollars. This would have a tax impact on a $125,000 assessed valuation home of $45.09 per year. Option #3 is replace the pool (as is), but with the required ADA upgrades and improvements. It would be one combined pool - the same size and configuration as the present one. That plan is estimated at $3.5 million dollars. It would have a tax impact on a $125,000 assessed valuation home of $36.08 per year. If over 75% of our citizens at least want the pool replaced, that would be the minimum hit we're talking about. So basically, we're talking about $9.00 a year difference (per household) for the replacement vs. the improved version. From a business standpoint, I'll go back to the survey. There was a question asking if you'd be willing to pay $2.00 to attend a replacement pool (same size - features). There were 79% of the respondents that answered Yes. When that price was raised to $2.50, 61% said No. Then 75% said No to $3.00. When asked if people would be willing to pay $3.50 to swim at a facility with the added features, 65% said Yes. What the Park Department is trying to do, is to figure out what level of features would bring the most bang for the buck. It seems to me like the added features would easily pay for themselves over the life of the pool. Plus having separate pools for the competition lanes, pleasure pool, and the water slide would allow several different activities to be running at once. Also, more features would keep people interested in the pool longer. That means more concession revenue. The income from concessions hasn't even been discussed.

   Another issue discussed is keeping the admission rates low. Obviously, this is critical. I think the best business plan for this is to offer residents a heavily discounted season pass, and charge a premium to the previously mentioned "outsiders" (by the way - historically, about 50% of Jury Pools swimmers are from outside of New Haven). It's been stated on this blog and enthusiastically presented at the last Council Meeting that the Troy, Ohio aquatic center rate was $7.75 per person. Ron Steinman tried to state that it was more like $4.50 and he was correct. Unfortunately, he was wrongly scolded for not having current information. Turns out somebody else didn't do her research very well. The pool that costs $7.75 isn't the Troy, Ohio facility that the Park Department has been using as a model. It's a pool in Troy, Michigan - a suburb of Detroit. The link on a previous comment to this blog directs you to that site. So basically, that information has absolutely nothing to do with the discussion at hand. If you want to see the Troy, Ohio rates, they are at http://www.troypool.com They also have season passes and family resident passes to bring the cost down.

Another idea that's been tossed around is voting on this proposal with a referendum. I have no problem with that other than the fact that it would delay the project even longer. A six month or year additional delay could easily add $100,000 or more to the project because of inflation. Since the survey overwhelmingly showed favor for doing a project, would it make economic sense to hope that prices wouldn't go up even more a year later? That's up to the Council to decide.

In closing, I've heard the "we can't afford to do this" argument over and over again. I think we can't afford NOT to do it. Both for the economic vitality of our community and the quality of life for our residents. I know it's an additional burden that people on fixed or low income don't need. And I'm truly sorry for that. My mother is 87 years old and lives by herself in New Haven. She's on a fixed income and will never use the pool. Her opinion is that if it's good for the kids in our community, then she'd be glad to help pay for it. I certainly wish more people thought like that. I appreciate the forward thinking of our leaders 40 years ago that took a chance and built Jury Pool. It's one of the features that defines New Haven as a great place to live. I hope it will continue to do that.

Craig Dellinger

Jury Pool Letter to Council Members (Guest Editorial by Kim Yoh)

2008-05-27T14:40:00Z

I sometimes feel that telling my side of the story looks a bit strange because, after all, "the pools are my job." But, because of that, I feel that I have much insight into what the pool means to those in our community. I was a child who grew up at that pool and still find it to be a great recreational center for our entire community. I have seen the parents and children "grow" to be avid swimmers and comfortable swimmers by attending our swimming lessons. We always boast that our programs have "invisible rewards" because we never know how many lives our lessons have saved.

I also would like to address the amount of time and information that I have gained through the numerous meetings with other locations that have been in our same situations with aging structures. I have personally learned a lot from seeing facilities that were built in areas similar to ours. I can see that demolition with no pool replacement is not an option and providing a new structure is what the public wants. The results of the survey speak for itself. The Park Department was given the task of surveying the public and that is exactly what we did. And, the numbers speak for themselves. Over 70% of the persons responding to our scientific survey chose to have Jury Park and Pool redone or upgraded. After questions regarding the possibilities of "redoing the pool as is" were raised, we have also addressed the situation of having it done exactly as is. That is not an option because of new guidelines required by the ADA and the need for a new filter room and area for some concessions.

I could personally speak for hours on our findings but feel that this has been very well presented in the other meetings. I would just like for you to look at the data given to you and make a decision based on the wants and needs of the community. Many are fine with the increase in their taxes because they know that the value to the community will come out exponentially. They cannot put a dollar value on the price of health, fun and companionship within our community. Please vote to allow the community to grow and move into the next phase of progress!

Kim Yoh
Aquatic Director

Jury Pool: Guest Editorial by Harold E. West

2008-05-27T13:34:00Z

Tonight, will be an important night for the city of New Haven. We will be hearing again from the public about the Jury Pool project. I hope the room is again filled to capacity.

One of the persons opposed to the project implied that he is part of the "silent majority" opposed to council's alleged "tax and spend" policies. I believe the silent majority may be those who want to see New Haven move forward with the project.

Over the years, each summer, I have watched numbers of children and young people walking past my home in their bathing suits with a towel over their shoulder. It has been a part of what I believe makes my neighborhood what it is - family friendly and a great place to live.

If the pool is closed, I believe it will have a profound impact not just on the neighborhood but on the entire community. These days, the cost to each taxpayer is less than the price of a tank of gas in most cases. With no end in sight to the gaso line situation, more and more people will be staying close to home and will want to enjoy the parks and recreational facilities New Haven offers.

Without Jury pool, what will these young people do? Sit at home in front of the computer or the TV? Or worse, be out throwing rocks through windows of abandoned stores and homes? Or, getting into other sorts of mischief?

This decision is one that may determine our future direction as a city. Are we to be a city defined by borders, stores, and houses? Or, are we to be a community? A community that works together for the betterment of all.

I am not a pool person. I am however, willing to pay my share of the taxes to give the young people in New Haven as well as my children and grandchildren a safe and convenient place to enjoy their summers.

Some have said that if we close Jury Pool, we will still have two pools in New Haven. Some of these same folks are concerned about increased traffic and parking problems in the area. What will the problems be at the remaining pools when they all go there?

I have heard from a "silent majority" that wants Jury Pool to stay and/or improve. I hope that they are all out in force tonight. I have encouraged them to be there for this meeting and all council meeting to make themselves heard.

If we are not willing to invest in our community to improve the quality of life, how can we ask others to do so? If you are asked to show prospective business owners the highlights of New Haven, what will you show them? Will they be impressed by how much money we saved by closing pools and cutting back on recreational activities at our parks?
Or, would you rather show them our neighborhood pools that are well maintained and full of the noise of happy, playing children?

I hope we hear from you tonight and at all future council meetings where these important issues are on the table.

Harold E. West
New Haven City Council
District 2

Jury Park & Pool Renovation #2

2008-05-24T23:42:00Z

I've had several requests to publish the specifics of the project, so I'll post a few slides from
the Park Board's presentation for the renovation. (sorry for the quality).
The renovation committee put together six options ranging from replacing the current pool
with a spash pad to a full blown aquatics park (Troy, Ohio layout). It was decided that
Option #4 gave our community the best bang for the buck.
The pool renovation (option #4) includes a recreational swim area, a separate competition
pool, and one water slide. It would include building new locker rooms and a concession area,
changing the baseball diamond around and dramatically increasing the parking area. The
current playground equipment will be replaced or reconditioned.
There isn't a fully rendered drawing of the project yet, because it's just recently been
decided on the plan. Also, it might still change or be modified before the project is
approved by City Council.

Open Letter to the New Haven City Council: (Guest Editorial by Lynne Isenbarger)

2008-05-23T21:16:00Z

   First and foremost, I would like to publicly thank Council Members Harold West, Mickey Hill and Terry Werling for your steadfast support and understanding the immediate needs of the renovation of Jury Park and Pool for the future growth of this community.
   The life of a public pool is not more than 20 maybe 25 years, the fact that our pool is still open after 40 years is a testament to our amazing staff... but Jury can't be bandaged anymore.
   You all have heard the facts over and over again, the Park department has completed every request that the Council has asked of us, conceivable the most thorough presentation that the Council has witnessed. Clearly the results from the survey show wide community support, and the fact that Vince Buchanan from the Chamber - who
represents business interests, as do you - is in support of the bond is enormous. It is regrettable that the economy is the way it is right now, and that property taxes are still a mystery. Yet, I don't believe that one person from any of your districts will lose their home, or for that matter have a hardship supporting a $3.00 a month tax increase ($35.00 annually divided by 12, amount will change with home value) even over a 20 year period. But I can guarantee you that the economic decline, quality of life and loss of social interaction will be devastating to this community if Jury pool no longer exists, which will last forever. And forever is a really long time...
   This decision that you will make is historic, with your vote you will solidify your place in New Haven history. It will either be the City Council member that saved Jury Park & Pool or the City Council member that destroyed it. No other way to look at it...
   For those of you that are not making your City Council term a political career (and I believe none of you are... ) your time on Council will be over in a few years but please consider that your decision will last a lifetime.
   I implore you to vote yes, the few people that you are hearing from to vote no ... will never equal the historic devastation that this community will be hit with if and when Jury pool is bulldozed. I greatly appreciate the time you have given me.

A decision that will determine your legacy,

Lynne Isenbarger