In the aftermath of recent drownings, Monroe City Councilman Doug Harvey asked the Monroe City Council to stop charging fees for swimming at the city’s public pools.
Harvey, who represents District 1, wants the city to permanently drop its swimming fees for both youth and adults. The present fee is $1.00 for youth and $1.50 for adults.
Tuesday night, Harvey’s request was introduced for the first reading Tuesday night. It will be decided by the council two weeks from now.
Harvey said recent drowning deaths in the Ouachita River prompted his action
Harvey also wants the city to offer free swimming lessons to the public and will authorize up to $2,500 of his district’s discretionary funds to pay the cost if necessary.
Last week, Harvey told the Free Press, that he is aware that free swimming may cause a large influx of youth using the city pools.
“If that happens, it’s a good thing,” he said.
