Drowning in tax obligations, Arlington Swim Club pool closes

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- After months of existing in limbo, the Arlington Pool saga has seemingly come to a close.

The club announced on its Facebook page Friday morning that Thursday, Aug. 29, 2024, was their last day of operation, not only for the season, but for good.

That is, unless an 'unlikely miracle' happens. 

Full Arlington Swim Club statement:

Throughout this year, the Arlington Pool Club Board of Directors has been exploring many opportunities to meet the property tax obligation which has been unmet over the past couple of years. While there have been conversations with potential investors who each presented options for the Pool Club to consider, the board has not been able to find a solution that would provide for the long-term sustainability of the pool.

Operating a community pool requires enough income flow to offset the expenses of operating such pool. Over the past few years, membership, which is the main source of income, has dwindled and not kept up with expenses, even with the gallant efforts of the Board and its fundraising committee.

Along with the decline in membership, which this season dipped to a record low, maintenance issues, lack of availability of guards, and infrastructure problems hinder the ability to maintain a sustainable business model. Of the solutions to redeem the outstanding tax bill, which has been accruing penalties, none presented the Board with ways in which seasonal maintenance and operation of the pool costs could be reduced to a point of sustainability.

Simply put, redemption of the tax bill does not address these needs. The Board aggressively pursued fundraising for the pool, but despite those efforts, it just is not enough. Redeeming the taxes and nothing else does not eliminate future lease/tax payments, the need for a heater, well pump, roof, sand filter, ladders, ceiling repairs and countless other expenses, not to mention the rising costs of pool supplies.

While Arlington Pool has been a staple in the community for over half a century and has brought delight to members and staff throughout the years, barring any unlikely miracle in which enough funding can be raised which not only redeems the tax bill but provides funding to provide a sustainable business model, we will be closing the pool after close of business on Thursday, August 29, 2024.

Thank you to all members who have made the pool the fun place to be over the years and to all the dedicated board members, staff, and others connected to the pool. It has truly been a joy to be a part of something that has had the impact on many in the community.