SIDNEY — A lingering drain leak has delayed the opening of Sidney’s municipal pool, Mayor Ray Baker told trustees during their June 23 meeting — just as the board unanimously approved the hiring of 14 lifeguards for the 2025 summer season.
Seasonal hires include returning and new staffers who will earn hourly wages ranging from $15.50 to $16.50. Danielle Foley will serve as head lifeguard at $16.50 per hour. Other lifeguards include Kelsey Cowen, Ian Paul, Emily Morris, Michael Morrissey, Grady Loffler, Carson Strauss, and Isabella West, among others. “It’s actually three less than last year,” Baker noted.
While the hiring was a positive step, the pool remains closed due to a damaged drain uncovered during pre-opening inspections. Baker explained that a square drain box was found to have significant corrosion, including a hole in the side and another in the bottom.
Village public works staff initially struggled with the repair. “DPW thought it was over their head,” Baker said, “but I kind of convinced them it’s not. We’re going to figure it out.” Public Works Director Brandon McEwan is leading the patch effort, and Baker said they’re considering using hydraulic cement or a JB Weld-style epoxy to seal the holes.
“If we can’t fix it, we’ll close it off,” Baker said, noting the pool has two drains, and one may be enough to function safely.
The village contacted the company that installed the pool liner, but was told it would be three to four weeks before a technician could visit. “That’s too long,” Baker said. “The goal is to get it fixed as soon as possible — ideally tomorrow.”
Trustees discussed temporary patch options to get the pool operational for swim lessons and summer recreation activities, with the intention of making a more permanent repair when the pool is drained at season’s end.
“It’d be nice to have it open for lessons,” Baker said. “We’re pushing hard to get it done.”
The pool is anticipated to open July 3 with hours as follows: open swim 2 - 5 p.m., adult swim 5 - 6 p.m. and family swim 6 - 7 p.m.
