common council story

The recent Oshkosh Common Council debates have raised questions as to whether or not Oshkosh would benefit from the construction of an aquatic center that could potentially increase the city’s economy.

In a debate last Wednesday the six Common Council candidates, who are vying for voter’s support in the April 5 election, expressed their conflicting views on the subject. While candidates Bryan Bain and Shirley Mattox showed reservation in developing a multi million dollar aquatic center, the remaining four candidates argued that such a project would likely be supported by taxpayers and would improve the economy.

Those candidates who support the idea agree that both private and public funding should be used to fund the project, which has been an issue in the community since the closure of Pollock Pool earlier this year.

"Private donors want their money to go toward supporting kids, I think that taxpayers will support an idea like this,"candidate Brian Poeschl said.

Meredith Scheuermann also expressed her support for an aquatic center, which would likely include a theme water park as well as various hotels and condominiums, but stressed the importance of having a partnership agreement between the city and citizens.

"Partnership is the key here...both public and private contributions will determine the success of the aquatic center," Scheuermann said citing the issue as part of her campaign platform.

Cheryl Hentz and Joe Jungwirth also agreed with the proposal to add a water park or public pool to benefit the Oshkosh community.

Though candidate Bryan Bain expressed his opposition to the $7 million project, he stated that he is open to suggestions for a project that would prove a positive impact on the Oshkosh community. Mattox, who also showed opposition to the aquatic center, proposed a shuttle bus system that would allow Oshkosh residents to take advantage of the county’s swimming beach.

"The lifeguards that used to work at Pollock Pool have been working at the county park during the summer...this issue should be posed to the public for their input," Mattox said.

Though the candidates differ in opinion, they agree that voter’s input is vital to the success or failure of any proposed project.

"Public input is very vital to anything we plan to spend a large sum of money on," candidate Jungwirth said.