Villa Park reconsiders pool closing

Villa Park officials have reconsidered plans to close Lufkin Pool following a public outcry.

The village board was considering closing one of the community's two pools to narrow a projected $1.3 million budget shortfall in the coming year's budget. Staff estimated closing the pool at 1000 S. Ardmore Ave. would save roughly $130,000.

It was one of several options village leaders have been considering to balance the proposed $39 million spending plan.

"The village of Villa Park is struggling with its budget," Trustee Jeff Blankensop said.

But the board voted unanimously late Monday night to keep the south-side pool open again this season, along with the Jefferson Pool on the village's north side, after roughly two dozen residents urged them not to shutter their summer haven.

"Sometimes the bottom line involves more than dollars and cents. It involves people and families," resident Andy Isaacson said.

Given the economy, many residents will be sticking close to home this summer and the pool will substitute for vacations, residents said. Teens also are relying on the pool for summer jobs.

"You're taking away hope that better times are ahead," resident Jean Taylor said.

Residents urged trustees to make cuts elsewhere, such as $18,000 slated for flowers and $6,500 for an employee party.

"I can go without daffodils; I can go without tulips," resident Denise Egan said. "Spend more on your community than on yourself. Cut your party. I don't understand why this is an option. This is just not acceptable. It's appalling."

Village officials said several of the mentioned items already were cut since the budget was posted online, and more reductions will be necessary. Village Manager Robert Niemann said up to a dozen employees likely will lose their jobs.

"We will be making drastic cuts," Village President Joyce Stupegia said.

Several residents also suggested the village cut hours and shorten the pool season instead, and some even asked that the village raise pool pass rates as an alternative to closing the pool.

"It's a very valuable asset," resident Pam Bradford said. "A lot of us will pay a little bit more."

Officials responded that they will consider increasing the cost of passes by $5 to generate roughly $15,000 and shortening evening hours to save another $50,000 on operations.

"It's a luxury we're having trouble affording," Trustee David Hegland said. "(But) it's pretty clear the boss has spoken. We must find some alternatives."