Howell Park pool to remain closed through year amid safety concerns, lifeguard shortage

EAST BATON ROUGE PARISH, La. (WAFB) – The new pool at Howell Community Park will remain closed for the rest of the year and possibly longer after a recent incident involving young children and firearms.

BREC officials and city-parish leaders made the announcement during a press conference Monday, July 28, outlining the circumstances that led to the closure and what needs to happen before the facility can reopen.

According to officials, the pool was shut down last week after a group of children reportedly snuck in before operating hours. Two of the children, believed to be no older than 12, were allegedly carrying guns.

“We’re not talking about 17-year-olds or 18-year-olds. We’re speaking about little children hopping the fence and two young boys having weapons in their hands. That’s concerning,” said Metro Councilwoman Twahna Harris.

The incident led to several certified lifeguards refusing to go back to the pool, citing safety concerns. BREC Superintendent Janet Simmons said lifeguards had also been threatened on multiple occasions.

“I don’t care whether they have handguns or not. If they’re causing problems, like cornering our lifeguards or any of our employees, this place is going to get shut down,” Simmons said.

In response, BREC has started to install additional security cameras, ordered a new pool cover to deter access after-hours, and requested increased police presence at the park.

However, Simmons said the biggest issue remains the lack of qualified lifeguards.

One potential solution under discussion is transforming the pool into a training site where community members can learn to swim and earn lifeguard certification.

Rob Dowie, owner of SELA Aquatics, said 30 people recently applied for lifeguard positions but failed to meet the certification requirements for Howell Park.

“The solution might be to repurpose the pool and put more emphasis on learning to swim. Because over time, that’s going to yield more lifeguards,” said Dowie.

Local residents say they’re eager to see the pool reopen.

One woman, who started a petition that gathered more than 100 signatures, said she understands the safety concerns but hopes to see improvements that will bring the pool back.

“I do understand the security issues. If you don’t have lifeguards, you can’t have a safe pool. So, I get that, and I look forward to them putting in place measures and policies to improve the safety here so we can reopen,” said Tebbe Jackson.

While she admits she’s disappointed by the extended closure, she remains hopeful.

“I am disappointed by this decision, but I’m positive we’re going to come together and find solutions as a community. Let’s be a partner with BREC and help make that happen,” said Jackson.

BREC is forming a task force that will include community groups and partners to help explore potential solutions. Those interested in joining can email [email protected] to get involved.

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