No decision is made regarding the fate of the Field Kindley Swimming Pool.
After board action to close the pool was taken off the USD 445 Board of Education agenda, a public forum still took place Monday, with standing room only, as at least 75 members of the public filled the boardroom and spilled out into the lobby.
Community members mentioned the history of the pool and the swimming program, it's uniqueness in southeast Kansas and what would be lost if the pool does close.
Jim Faulkner spoke during public comments and says this problem has been building for a long time.
Those speaking mentioned the pool's recreational, exercise and medical benefits, and students and coaches spoke up regarding the difficulties encountered while swimming with the Independence team.
Ann Marie Vannoster says nearly 1000 recorded lifeguards have been trained at the pool.
Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll says this is a difficult conversation and that he has been particularly bothered by the discourse on social media.
The board did approve a Request For Proposal for demolition costs and another RFP for fixing the roof.
In other business, the board heard the budget review and set a revenue-neutral rate hearing for its next meeting on September 8th.
