2024 looks to be the last for Mt. Carmel’s iconic swimming pool. At a special city council meeting today over the noon hour Mayor Joe Judge said inspectors with the Illinois Department of Public Health were in town this summer to look at the city pool and recertify it to be able to operate next year.Judge said the results from IDPH weren’t favorable…

Leaks have caused the pool to lose 35,000 gallons of water a day and that has resulted in the city putting almost 45 gallons of chlorine in the pool every day.

The city has proposed building a new aquatic facility but will need approval from voters in November to make it happen. The council today approved an ordinance that will place a referendum on the ballot asking city voters to give the city the authority to issue up to  $3,500,000 general obligation bonds to help pay for the $8 million pool. Judge said if Mt. Carmel is to have a city pool, it’s essential the referendum is approved….

Commissioner Susan Zimmerman’s family has been involved in some capacity with the pool for decades and she said while memories are great, it’s time to move on from the current city pool…

Commissioner Tyson Meador said offering recreational opportunities is important for the community…

Judge fired back at social media comments that label Mt. Carmel in a negative light…

Judge said the city will continue to pursue grants and naming rights campaign to help pay for the facility.

The pool is now open weekends and will close Tuesday, September 3rd as the Shelter Buddies host their annual dog swim.