We agree with Mayor Bill Poch from Riverside, Iowa. Questions should be fully answered before approving taxpayer dollars. We also agree that Splash Pads can be a lot of fun!
Taxpayers should be aware that it is more cost effective and safe to have a Splash Pad that recirculates treated water than one that runs tap water. Water, a natural resource, should be considered a more valuable resource. Running tap water which needs to go back to the treatment facility can be wasteful. Leaving the faucet on can be costly!
Safety is an issue for Splash Pads as well. Splash Pads have been seen as an alternative to “baby pools,” an option that keeps diaper contents away from other bathers. It seems that contaminants go down the Splash Pad’s drain. In use, contaminants can stay on the flooring of the pad and remain on the water features, on anything that the users come into contact with.
Properly treating the water that swimmers use is necessary for community aquatic facilities. The chemicals used wipe out buggies quickly, reducing person-to-person transmission. Tap water may not eliminate bacteria and viruses that accumulate on handles, pipes, toys and water features, but properly treated water will.
Good planning in the beginning can certainly benefit for the long term! We love helping people enjoy water!
