A renewed push to help save a long-time pool in St. Joseph County

ST. JOSEPH COUNTY, Ind - The president of the Arlington Swim Board tells ABC57 that a generous neighbor is willing to pay off the more than $30,000 in back taxes.

Not only that, but the property here sits on about four acres, and that neighbor is willing to buy two acres of the property here to help alleviate more of those costs and keep this pool above water.

With summer just around the corner, this now-vacant pool will soon be filled with water and kids eager to make a cannonball splash off the diving board.

With the pool hitting financial hardships, Mark Dollinger, whose family has been members of the pool for more than 20 years, is now encouraging people to donate, to keep the summer fun and good vibes for everyone.   

"Historically over the last few years, we kind of had that worry of are we going to open next year," said Dollinger.

The club has raised around $5,000 through fundraising efforts. You can donate here if you're interested.

But with maintenance costs continually rising, people here say the pool can cost quite a bit, between $55,000 to $60,000 each summer. 

Membership fees usually help to pay to run the pool, but the club has also seen a drop in membership from 200 members down to 105.

Dollinger feels like rising inflation costs may force parents to be more selective when enrolling their children in summer activities.

Dollinger adds that if you need a place to come and relax on a Saturday or Sunday during the summer, the Arlington Swim Club is a great place. 

"I had our kids come here and learn to swim and take advantage of the pool in the summertime. It's a great place to have community come together, enjoy the outdoors, get some fresh air, and get some exercise in," said Dollinger.

Arlington Swim Club will be open this coming summer from Memorial to Labor Day.