MACON, Ga. — Macon-Bibb County is still trying to open four or six pools that are still locked up this summer, but opening the Bloomfield pool may prove more difficult.
For the third year in a row, the pool remained locked at the start of pool season.
Mechanical problems have plagued the pool since 2022 when someone stole some copper wiring and knocked the power out. That year also brought leaks. Then, in 2023, came a failed pool pump.
This year, the electrical problems remain because of more vandalism.
"Unfortunately, that has caused us to delay opening that one again this year as well," Macon-Bibb Parks and Recreation Director Robert Walker said. "We were preparing to open that pool, just as any other pool in the county this year. But again, ran into that situation part two this year."
Around the corner from the pool, Shamir Womack and her son, Ethan, washed the family car.
"Just a little boredom. Something to do," Shamir Womack said.
The pool closure means she drives Ethan and his friends pretty far if they want to take a dip.
"Right now, we'll go to Warner Robins or Houston Lake Road. That'll be our to-go place. But other than that, there's not too many around this area that are open," she said.
"By the time you get out, you just come home," Ethan added.
Womack says having more deputies patrol the areas around the park might help keep vandals away; but for now, she's stuck putting all the kids in the car when it's time for a swim.
"It's summertime. They shouldn't be just running around, being able to just be in my yard to play ball, which I don't mind. But still, just a little bit more activities," Womack said.
Walker says they're working with contractors to get everything fixed at Bloomfield, but he doesn't know when they'll get the parts they need.
He added if they don't get enough lifeguards, they can't open the pool, anyway. They're looking for 10- to-15-more lifeguards.
Walker says the shortage has become a problem nationwide. Since the pandemic, fewer people have applied, according to the American Lifeguard Association.
If you're interested in becoming a Bibb County lifeguard, you can apply on their website. You must be at least 16. Applicants 18 and older need a high school diploma. The county will train those who are not CPR-certified as long as they pass a swim test. Pay is $14 an hour.