To the Editor,
After reading the article about the possible closing of the city pool at the McConnell Sports Plex, I am very sorry to know closure is even being considered. With the assistance of the state and the fundraising to build this pool, the city created a real asset to the citizens of the Washington area. Not only does the WHS swim team practice and hold meets in the facility from November to February, but a satellite team of the East Carolina Aquatics Gators age group team trains there regularly. In addition, senior citizens who compete in Masters Meets and State Games competitions practice there and many citizens interested in fitness lap swim as well.
As a swimming official for over 30 years — for NCAA, NCHSAA, ACC, ECU and USA Swimming competitions in the local area, the state, and nationally — I realize and hope that our citizenry realizes how blessed we are to have a pool in Washington. Outside of the few YMCA pools, the college pools and the rare city pool, there are not many pools other than country club, sports club or subdivision pools East of I-95 and very few indoor pools which can be used all year long.
The pool could be utilized for teaching our elementary school children how to swim —  the “Make a Splash” Foundation funded by USA Swimming provides funds to local groups for this very necessary and beneficial teaching. Instead of shutting it down and risking losing state funding for our area’s projects, why not find new ways to use the facility.
Suzanne Heath

Chocowinity