Paterson Residents Furious Over Plan To Close Pools At Height Of Summer
PATERSON, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- In the middle of the extreme heat Friday, there was bad news for youngsters in Paterson, New Jersey.
As CBS2's Tracee Carrasco reported, pools and summer camps are shutting down when temperatures will still likely be sky-high.
On Friday evening, the Lou Costello Recreational Pool in Paterson packed with swimmers of all ages looking for relief on a hot summer day.
"I'm basically staying cool with the kids, because our apartment is hotter than the outside," said William Rosado of Paterson.
But come Aug. 12, at the height of the summer, the Lou Costello pool -- along with the other city pool and 36 summer camps -- will shut down because of the city's ongoing financial problems. This also means 400 teens and adults will be out of a job.
"The City Council hasn't voted or approved the mayor's proposed tax levy, and that's where we are now," said Paterson Recreation Director Benjie Wimberly.
In a statement, Paterson Mayor Jose Torres told CBS2, "Unfortunately the impact of budget cuts demanded by the Municipal Council, will prove detrimental for the city."
Many children who take advantage of these free summer programs and the pools are not happy.
"It's sad because I like this pool so much," said Brandon Molina, 10.
"What are we going to do on hot days?" said Hector Gordon, 12.
The kids' parents were equally upset. They said summer activities, especially the pools, keep the kids out of trouble.
"Paterson is one of the highest crime-rate cities in New Jersey," said Brenda Thomas. "So why would you take this from the kids? These kids need someplace to go."
"I've been coming here since I was a kid. This saved my life. I started bringing my child here," said Alexis Montgomery. "Many of these kids -- they have no way out. This is their chance of having fun."
Wimberly said the closing of the pools would be a tremendous loss.
"Many of our people are not going have a trip to Disney this summer or Myrtle Beach this summer," he said. "This is their relaxation and their summer."
The recreation director told CBS2 he hopes the mayor and city council can come to some sort of agreement to keep the programs and pools open for the rest of the summer.