Pool House Rendering
The City of Lakesite announced that it was one of the recipients of Hamilton County’s Leaning Into Communities grants. The grant matching program partners with small cities and towns to revitalize local parks, green spaces, and community gathering spaces. It's the first round of projects slated for such funding by the county, as part of an initiative introduced by County Mayor Weston Wamp.
With support from District 3 County Commissioner Ken Smith, the City applied for the one-time 2:1 grant for up to $250,000 to help with the funding of the renovation of Lakesite’s 60-year-old pool house in Lakesite Park, a project that will significantly enhance one of the City’s most valued public spaces.
Lakesite’s community pool and pool house were originally operated by dedicated volunteers until the City acquired the property in 2022. As the condition of the pool worsened, the risk of closure grew. The City Commission recognized the pool's value and sought public input through a survey, which showed strong community support for its preservation, even from those who did not currently use it.
Unfortunately, an engineering study determined that a larger facility was not feasible due to the lack of a sewer system in the area. Nonetheless, the City Commission decided to take ownership and manage the pool, planning for its renovation.
Ahead of the 2024 season, the pool renovation was completed and included an ADA compliant lift; updated plumbing; a new deck, shade structure and slide.
Following the 2024 season, the City planned to begin Phase 2: the renovation of the pool house. A citizen committee was convened to develop a design based on the budget allocated by the City Commission.
The proposed design includes fully ADA-compliant restrooms and changing rooms, a small concession area (a first for the facility), and a secure storage space for chemicals and supplies.
“The Lakesite pool project is exactly the kind of thoughtful, community-driven investment the Leaning Into Communities program was created to support,” said Ken Smith, County Commissioner, District 3. “I was proud to support the City’s application and advocate for its approval, knowing how much this space means to local families. Lakesite has shown real leadership in preserving and enhancing this community asset, and I’m excited to see how this next phase will continue to serve residents for generations to come."
Roughly half of the visitors during the season are Lakesite residents, while the other half comes from surrounding areas outside the city limits. Throughout the summer, the pool acts as a vital gathering place for the community. It is also available for private rentals outside of regular operating hours, offering additional opportunities for residents to connect and celebrate.
“We extend our deepest thanks to Mayor Weston Wamp and Commissioner Ken Smith for their steadfast support and partnership in securing the Parks and Recreation grant for Lakesite,” said David Howell, Mayor of Lakesite. “Their dedication to enhancing our community spaces is making a lasting impact, and we are truly grateful for their leadership and commitment to a better Hamilton County. This is something that families in Lakesite will enjoy for generations.”
For more than six decades, the pool has played a vital role in bringing residents together, and it continues to be a key reason why families choose to settle in Lakesite. Many are drawn to the family-friendly atmosphere, with the community pool serving as both a welcoming space and a symbol of that culture.