Letter to the editor: Worried for future of Dormont Pool

In the article “ ‘Dormont called’: Pittsburgh residents may be able to use Dormont’s pool soon” (July 27, TribLIVE), Dormont manager Ben Estell states, “We’re extremely flexible. We’re trying to help out the city.” He goes on to say, “We certainly welcome the opportunity to help our neighbors.”

If that were true, the residents and taxpayers of Dormont would be enjoying this local treasure full time. Currently, the pool is only open six hours a day and closed Mondays. While it is commendable that Dormont was able to look out for the health and welfare of borough employees by not laying off anyone during the pandemic, costing the taxpayers well over $100,000, it is sad that they don’t make the same consideration for the residents.

In 2006, I started the campaign to save Dormont Pool, followed by 12 years on council. While on council I never voted to retain the current outside pool management, Jeff Ellis Management. Operations worked better with local people. Lifeguards returned year after year. There is not a “lifeguard shortage” in Dormont. It is a management and council problem.

I welcome all city residents to Dormont Pool. My issue is with a manager and council that spends tens of thousands of dollars forming a “five-year strategic plan” without mentioning Dormont Pool once. It makes one wonder what the plan for the pool is, if any, moving forward. Based on the plan that keeps it closed almost as much as it is open, I’m a bit worried.

John Maggio

Dormont