Park and Recreation Commission unanimously endorses $2.35 million Atkinson Pool article

SUDBURY — April 1, 2024 — Sudbury Park and Recreation unanimously backs $2.35 million Atkinson Pool warrant article. The commission voted 5-0 on April 1 to support Article 23 on the May annual town meeting warrant after learning the Select Board (5-0), Finance Committee (7-0) and Capital Improvement Advisory Committee (7-0) had all endorsed the package, which Vice-Chair Mara Huston confirmed will be funded as future in-levy debt with no tax increase. Facilities lead Sandra called the scope — a new rooftop dehumidification unit, full pool re-grouting, tile and cove repair, skimmer replacement, water filtration, boiler-room ventilation and structural repair, and a new solar-ready EPDM roof — the equivalent of "putting in a new engine in an antique car." The commission also learned the pool's dive well closed in late March after an anonymous EPA citizens complaint alleged chlorinated water was leaching into the ground; the town de-chlorinated the pool while staff collect leak-rate data. Member Bobby Beagan, the most skeptical voice, said the unanimous finance-side support flipped his vote.