Pool Bubble Funding Decision Delayed Until Mid-August

A pool bubble manufacturer was recommended almost three weeks ago to the Town Council but it will be mid-August before the panel votes on the issue.

Arizon Structures of St. Louis, Missouri, was recommended by the Public Building Commission on July 21 to replace the pool bubble for a base cost of about $203,000.

Despite that action, council chairman Tim Slocum told a crowd of swim supporters that it would not act on the recommendation until Aug. 17 when it holds a special council meeting.

Slocum also reported Cheshire Academy will allow the Cheshire High School girls swim team to practice at the private school's pool this fall.

Arizon representative Jan Ligas told the building committee it would take from six to 10 weeks to manufacturer the bubble once the order has been placed.

Given that timeline, the bubble installation, if approved, would begin in early- to mid-October.

To review funding for the bubble project, a special meeting with the building commission and the council will be held Monday at 7:30 at Town Hall followed by a special council meeting two days later, on Aug. 17, when the council is expected to vote on the funding.

Only two bubble manufacturers presented plans to the building commission last month; the second company, Yeadon Fabric Structures Ltd. of St. Paul, Minn. gave the town a base proposal price of about $256,000.

Detailed information about the two bubble proposals are available on the attached pdf document.

The Cheshire Community Pool bubble collapsed in January after a heavy snow storm. Insurance proceeds are expected to pay for the majority of the project.

Town Manager Michael Milone reported Tuesday the town is expected to receive about $115,000 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency as a reimbursement for storm-related expenses. Town officials have said some of the federal funds may possibly be used to partially pay for damage to the pool building and equipment.