Voters divided on Mt. Carmel pool referendum

MT. CARMEL, Ind. (WEHT) — The city of Mount Carmel has a question on the ballot that could clear the way for a new swimming pool.

The city is asking people to vote yes on a referendum to put $3.5 million over a 20 year period towards a new pool and bathhouse.

Mayor Joe Judge says there is a lot of misinformation surrounding the question on the ballot regarding the Mt. Carmel City Pool. He hopes to put all of the rumors to rest in one last public meeting on Monday before the November 5th election.

"The biggest issue on the misinformation is that if you vote no it saves the current pool and bathhouse. Which is not true. Unfortunately those two cannot be operated as a pool or bath house without major expense," said Judge.

Built in 1937 the state closed the pool in August after a city inspection. It revealed the current pool leaks 35 thousand gallons of water daily when open and needs extensive repairs.

Judge says it is no longer ada compliant. A feasibility study revealed all the work would cost over $11 million which the mayor says was too big of a price tag.

"We decided to go with the most economical but yet nice solution for our community," said Judge.

The next public information meeting is scheduled for Monday October 21 from 6 to 7 at the city pool.

The Wabash County Chamber of Commerce says they are in favor of the referendum and encourages anyone with questions or concerns to come to the public meeting.

Watch the video above to learn more.