Letter to the Editor: WSCC board does not reflect its mission in regards to pool

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Dear Editor,

The College (West Shore Community College) recently changed its slogan to read “Community + College”.   This slogan is part of the college’s mission statement which defines the college’s role in making our community a better place in which to learn, live, work and prosper.

It sounds catchy- quite inspiring but one has to give pause on its sincerity!

For 50 years the college pool has contributed through its many aquatic programs to the wellness of our community.  In 2015 a $30 million millage over 10 years was approved to address the continued upkeep of the college facilities including the pool.  In 2016 the college specifically addressed the need for repairs on the pool infrastructure.

Here we are in 2024 and these repairs have not been done.   The pool still has considerable life and can be renovated for less than $1 million.  The college board of trustees on advice of the administration earlier this year leaned towards closing the pool due to its maintenance costs, low use and lack of life guard staffing.

These concerns have been addressed.  Increased use of the pool would most certainly reduce its costs but the administration has refused to reinstate and promote many of the popular swim programs that were stopped with the pandemic.  And, the local high schools can be a rich resource as in the past for life guards.

Currently the Recreation Center is being renovated.  These renovations do not include the pool.

As a taxpayer I am very upset that this valuable multi-million dollar resource to the community is going to waste. What better describes the concept of “Community + College” as the college refurbishing the pool to its past glory offering swim programs vital to the safety and enjoyment of our community.

Next year the board will be requesting another capital improvements millage for 10 years for approximately $30 million.  Millions of dollars given to the college board of trustees without stipulations on how these funds are spent.  Ironically, if the board has its way without resistance by the community, some of these funds will be used to eliminate the pool.  And, most likely it will be at a cost equal or greater then what it would take to renovate this gem of a community resource!

I have sent this letter directly to the board of trustees (emailed to tmstadler@westshore.edu Attn: Board of Trustees).   I suggest community members do the same to voice their concerns to the Board.

Tom Kalina

Hamlin Township

Editor’s Note: Millage funds do not go directly to the WSCC Board of Trustees, as stated by the author. The funds go toward the college. The Board of Trustees sets policy and the budget.