County Recreation Committee Could Re-Group
by Jonathan Weaver
Leechburg officials reminded County Commissioners last week that the Belmont Complex in East Franklin Township isn’t the only recreational spot in Armstrong County.
Nor is it the only one that needs fiscal assistance.
Leechburg Area Pool Board Member Dom Guido requested the dollars during the commissioners’ town hall meeting to upgrade the 54-year-old pool.
“I know ambulances, police and firemen come first, but if you could see it in your heart for some recreation, it would be really, really appreciated here in Leechburg,” Guido said.
It seems like we’re neglected down here. Any help would be greatly appreciated.”
Since 2008, pool board members have dwindled down more than $80,000 in debt Guido said.
Leechburg Area Pool Board Member Dom Guido asked County Commissioners for help rehabilitating the Leechburg Area Pool at last week’s town hall meeting.
Board Vice-President Karen Marangoni and Board Member Christy Henry said members are waiting for word if they will receive a $20,000 Department of Community and Natural Resources grant.
“There are a lot of things that need to be fixed,” Marangoni said.
A possible solution Commissioner Chair Pat Fabian said would be if the former Belmont Advisory Committee receives funding for the first time in years.
“They’re itching to do some projects throughout the County. One thing we’ve talked about as a Board is getting that advisory board up-and-running as parks and rec, reallocating dollars to parks and rec to disperse throughout our communities,” Fabian said.
Fabian thought it “amazing” that public officials are able to fundraise so much to keep that pool open.
“We survive by fundraisers,” Henry said. “It’s been a lot of work.”
County Commissioner Jason Renshaw added dispersing the funds to many local communities would not make the Belmont Complex the only County recreational spot.
“We’re going to do what we can – whether it’s $10,000, $20,000; give them something to help places like (Leechburg Pool),” Renshaw said
Both women became involved two-and-a-half years ago after their children accessed the pool.
“And we’d like to see it stay open, because that’s one of the few things around here for kids to actually go and do,” Marangoni said.
The pool closed for the season Labor Day Weekend. It annually reopens around Memorial Day.
Officials already have their next fundraiser planned – a cash bash November 12 at the West Leechburg Fire Hall.
Local News | jweaver September 26, 2016
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By jorn jensen, September 26, 2016 @ 9:09 AM
This is so sad - people begging for money. The commissioners have no more money to give than they take from the taxpayers. As I recall, Allegheny Ludlum used to support the pool - now someone needs to support what is left of steel.
Macungie, PA, has a beautiful public pool and park - the townspeople support it with events. Once or twice per year, they hold a big auto show and flea market with entertainment - multi-day event - gate fee EVERY day. Local hotels all booked solid. Not sure, but I think the pool is free to the town residents. Contact their town managers and ask them how they do it.