BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—In a recent turn of events, the Bucyrus City Council’s disappointing announcement of the closure of the Bucyrus City Pool for the year has spurred a local resident into action. Jennifer Allonas, a resident of Bucyrus, took to social media to rally the community in a collective effort to ensure the pool opens in time for summer recreation.

Last year, the pool faced a similar predicament until the Bucyrus City School District intervened, generously donating $80,000 by purchasing season passes for all students from grades K-12. Encouraged by the overwhelming support from the community, including innovative fundraising ideas, Allonas took the initiative to organize a meeting with city officials to strategize a plan.

Conor Hix, a Columbus-based realtor with ties to Bucyrus, caught wind of Jennifer’s call to action and pledged his support to the cause.

Together, they met with city officials, who offered their backing, including leftover funds from the previous year’s pool operations. However, an additional $70,000 is urgently required to make the reopening a reality.

While Hix proposed organizing a 5K color walk and run to raise funds, it became evident that the event would not be feasible for this year.

Allonas is seeking volunteers to help with every aspect of the process. When the funding is secured, the city must hire lifeguards, a pool manager, and concession stand help.

Allonas has launched a GoFundMe campaign to collect donations. The funds will be directly allocated to the pool fund overseen by City Auditor Kali Lewis. Time is limited, as the funding has to be in place by next Friday.

In a display of unity, Allonas and a team of volunteers are reaching out to local community organizations and businesses for further support.

Reflecting on the progress made in just five days, Allonas expressed her amazement at the power of community collaboration.

For those interested in contributing, monetary donations can be made through the GoFundMe page or dropped off in person at City Hall.

For more information on volunteering, visit the Support Aumiller Pool Community Page on Facebook.

Allonas remains hopeful that ongoing park events and fundraising endeavors will secure the future of the city pool.

Crawford County Now will continue to cover this developing story.