Forum July 24, 2008

To the Forum
City Commission decision on Iola pool draws criticisms, suggestions
When reading Richard Luken’s article “Public input bypassed on pool” in Wednesday’s The Iola Register, I was disappointed in the actions of our city commissioners. In deciding the fate of the pool, they made an important decision of lasting social and economic consequences without listening to the citizens of this community.
Although the 2007 flood was tragic, it offered the commissioners an opportunity to greatly improve our community. They have had a year to survey citizens, hold public forums, visit their constituents, review possible plans and make an informed decision for the future benefit of Iola. Instead, they let down the children and adults of this community by insisting on rebuilding the pool in Riverside Park, despite public opinion to the contrary. Rather than exploring the option of a community aquatic center that could be used by young and old year-round, it has been decided to reconstruct a seasonal pool in a flood plain, turning a potential legacy into a probable liability.
I admire Mayor (Bill) Maness for voting against this issue based on his belief that they did not have adequate public input. I wish greater consideration had been given to Mayor Maness’ point of view.
If the issue of the pool is so exhausting and unmanageable that the need to “put to rest” this decision outweighs the need for adequate public discussion, then perhaps we need to elect officials who are up to this challenge.
Sincerely,

Angelea Heim
Iola, Kan.

Now that the city fathers have decided where they are going to locate the swimming pool, I am wondering if it is too late or if it would do any good to make a request/suggestion concerning the design.
Because of several health considerations, many of my own making, medical professionals have advised me that I should do non-weight-bearing exercise, i.e., swimming. We read almost daily about all the concerns with obesity and lack of exercise in our communities. Incorporating a part of the pool for year-round use would be of a great assistance to a number of Iola citizens and would offer a year-round source of revenue for the pool.
I used to drive to Burlington and use their indoor pool in the off-season and then use the Iola Municipal Pool during the season. I know that the exercise it afforded made a great difference for myself and I am sure it would for many others as well. With the cost of gasoline, I can no longer afford to drive to Burlington. I do know that in the past it looked to me like several members of our community took advantage of the summer adult aqua exercise programs offered through the Iola Parks and Recreation Department.
I know this would add to the cost of the new pool but it would also make it a source of more than just fun for the kids in the summer and could benefit a lot of Iola residents, making them a healthier and a more vital part of our community. Commissioners, please consider this.
Respectfully,

John E. Maier
Iola, Kan.

“Government of the people, by the people, and for the people ...” brought our country together after Gettysburg.
Checks and balances have maintained our form of democracy for more than 200 years. Perhaps Iola’s commissioners are above such scrutiny.
A public pool will be built in Riverside Park without the public’s blessing or votes. So be it.
If we as fellow citizens allow “our” elected officials to “wag the dog,” who is to really blame?
Regretfully,

Michael Decker
Iola, Kan.

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