The Atlantic Parks & Recreation Dept. met Monday evening via Zoom conferencing. One of the things they discussed was the opening of the Sunnyside Pool. Parks and Rec Director Bryant Rasmussen asked the Board’s opinion on whether or not it would be worth it, giving the uncertainty of the current COVID-19 directive, to fill the pool this week or next, and open it up by the middle or end of May.

Rasmussen said the pools in Minnesota are staying closed for the season. The pool he said “Is already a money losing entity in itself, and if we have a shortened season how much that is actually going to hinder us financially.” He asked if the season could be called “A wash.”

Parks Board Member Jolene Smith said the pool shouldn’t be opened, because “Iowa has not even hit the peak yet (of COVID-19), and I don’t think it’s going to bring in that much revenue toward the cost of opening it.” Board President Stuart Dusenberry asked if Bryant could work out some sort of reciprocal arrangement with the YMCA for the use of their indoor pool if it manages to re-open. Rasmussen said he can talk with Dan Haynes at the Y and see what can be worked out as a partnership.

The Board agreed to table a decision on opening Sunnyside Pool until their meeting May 18th, or until they get better guidance from the State, with regard to a relaxing of restrictions that are currently in-place.

The Atlantic Parks and Rec Board also formed a consensus with regard to use of the Sunnyside Disc Golf Course. Board Chair Stuart Dusenberry suggested the City follows recommendations by the Disc Golf Association, and limit the number of players to no more than four at a time, and, no players from out-of-state allowed to play there at this time, even though the park falls into the “Green spaces” allowances from the State.

Director Rasmussen said also, there are still restrictions on camping at the Schildberg Campground. However, there are eight persons currently placed there. Because they are extended-stay construction workers, they are considered essential service providers, and therefore it is considered their “residence.” They all have signed leases for the duration of their respective projects.

Weekend campers are not allowed at this time due to the COVID-19 restrictions.