By RICK MILLER
Olean Star
Estimates for repairs to the swimming pool in War Veterans Park have ballooned to more than $1.5 million, the Olean Common Council learned Tuesday.
The council session included some back and forth accusations between aldermen, the mayor and a department head.
Last month the city opened bids for replacement of the pool’s sand filter and a new concrete deck that came in at around $1.1 million.
Meanwhile, city officials expressed concern over damage to the pool walls that led to another inspection and higher cost estimates for repairs.
The Cattaraugus County Health Department closed the pool in 2023 due to the failing sand filter.
Last year the city received notice it would receive $750,000 from a state fund for repairs to municipal swimming pools.
Aldermen heard from the project manager involved in the recent pool inspection via video hookup during Tuesday’s meeting, who estimated additional costs on top of the bid price of at least $375,000. He also suggested the city add another $100,000 for contingencies.
The project would include removing existing tile and inspecting the pool walls, fixing any voids and installing a new Marsite surface and pool cover. The project could start in August and be completed by Memorial Day 2027. With the increased work and delay in awarding the bid, the project manager said the project could probably not be completed until August 2027.
The council had received an information packet from Mayor Amy B. Sherburne on the pool repairs earlier in the day.
Council President Venon Robinson Jr., I-Ward 6, complained about delays not only with the swimming pool project, but with practically every project the city undertakes. This occurred during the last administration as well, he added
He said an Olean Star online news story over the weekend contained more information about the pool than the council was aware of. “I learned more in this piece right here than I knew what was coming up for our agenda. I think that’s just plain wrong. We should be informed.”
Robinson said after six months, “I’ve had enough evaluating, and I believe that this administration is worse than the previous when it comes to communication. We are not receiving information or we are receiving it at the last minute. We’ve had numerous incidents that have popped up since the end of the year where we were the last to know and I believe that needs to change.”
The council president asked again why the pool remained uncovered since it was closed? The exposure may have contributed to damage to the pool.
Robinson said city residents let it be known two years ago that they wanted the pool. “We’re coming back to this topic in two weeks,” he said. That will give council members, the city attorney and project manager time to think about options. The city could borrow the money to cover the pool costs above the grant. Also, additional grants could be sought by the city.
Sherburne rose after Robinson was done speaking to say she had not shared any information with the Olean Star that had not occurred during a public meeting or was not public knowledge. She added that she has provided the council “with more than enough information” on the pool. “If you want a pool, it’s your decision.”
The mayor added that she didn’t appreciate the council saying she wasn’t communicating with the aldermen. “I think I’m communicating well.”
Ward 7 Alderman David Anastasia said he agreed with Robinson that Sherburne needs to communicate better with the council.
Anastasia added that the city had $500,000 in additional state aid this year that could be used to fund new costs for the pool. “It’s a great marketing tool for the splash park,” he said.
The project director’s recommendation
Ward 1 Alderman Lawrence Bennion Jr., raised questions about staffing since the swimming pool has been closed and how many lifeguards and other staff would be needed to reopen the pool. This led to Youth and Recreation coordinator Kris Shewairy walking out of the meeting following some verbal sparring with the alderman.
“My goal,” said John Crawford, D-Ward 5, “is to try to problem-solve this. What will best serve our citizens?” He suggested some of the options for getting the extra money the city needs for the pool could come from Cattaraugus County or corporate sponsors.
Crawford also asked whether reducing the size of the pool would reduce costs. He was told the project would have to be rebid and it probably would not reduce construction or operating costs.
The council also asked to have a cost estimate for filling in and decommissioning the pool, as well as a more detailed set of cost estimates and options at its next meeting. In addition, aldermen asked that city attorney Michael Morgan review the options and prepare a recommendation. The council was adamant about maintaining the city pool, particularly because it is next to the new splash park.
The council also agreed during the Parks and Recreation Committee meeting to charge a $5 fee for a session at the splash park, which is not expected to open until mid-July because the contractor is waiting for parts.
Sessions will be either two or three hours, depending on attendance.
Robinson said he would be a no vote on the $5 charge, because he thinks it is too much for many families. The council is expected to vote on the splash park fee at its next meeting.
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