'Really sad:' Lack of lifeguards forces Holler Park Pool to close for summer 2019

MILWAUKEE -- Outdoor pools in Milwaukee County were scheduled to open for the summer June 15 -- with the exception of one popular pool on the city's south side. Holler Park Pool was slated to stay closed for summer 2019, and the decision upset neighbors.

It's usually a short but sweet walk to the Holler Park Pool for Marie McGeorge and her three kids.

"We go to the pool every year, every day, except rainy days," said Sullivan, McGeorge's eldest son. "The pool isn't supposed to open this year. It's really sad to me that they're not opening my favorite thing in summer."

The news spread on social media and surprised those who had hoped to take a dip.

"All the neighbors chimed in with shock and disbelief," McGeorge said.

Officials with the Milwaukee County Parks Department said the decision stemmed from a struggle to recruit lifeguards. Aquatic managers had to reduce hours at all indoor and outdoor pools. The lack of lifeguards forced the closure of the Holler Park Pool.

"Whenever a pool closes, it's a loss," said McGeorge.

Parks officials said the decision was based on attendance numbers and proximity to other aquatic facilities.

"It would be so heartbreaking for us to lose this asset in the community," said McGeorge.

Neighbors created a petition, with the goal of reversing the decision.

"It would be amazing if this decision could be overturned and we could have the summer we thought we were going to have in our neighborhood pool," said McGeorge.

Holler Park Pool is wheelchair accessible, which is why neighbors said it should be open. Parks officials said additional lifeguards cannot be added once the season begins.

Below is the complete statement from a spokesman for the Milwaukee County Parks Department: