Eighteen residents of the Fourth Ward spoke their pieces Thursday at Turner Hall as the City Council continued its hearings on what the community wants in recreation.

Most popular was an indoor swimming pool.

“We should be ashamed to bus our children to St. James and Mankato to swim and play hockey,” said Elaine Paa for openers.

FIFTY-SIX persons were in the audience and seven at the head table represent City Hall – four councilmen, the mayor, city manager and assistant city manager. Proceedings were tape recorded so councilmen can hear the playback for ideas.

Council president William Gafford said the Council wasn’t holding a hearing on an arena, pool or ice rink; they just wanted to know what the people would like for recreation.

Janet Rosenbloom said “we need a pool, but I have reservations about a rink. I’d like to know something more specific about costs. I’d also like to see any new building include a youth center.”

Harold Bierbaum said “a pool is necessary. Start with a pool and put in quality.”

A MULTI-PURPOSE arena,proposed by one active group in New Ulm, also had its fans.

Ben Thompson said “the proposal voted on in a bond issue in early 1975 was good. It was needed. Maybe it was too expensive (more than $3 million) but the need is still here for a pool, ice and a place for kids to socialize. I favor a pool inside. The council should join with the school district and work up a project.”

Charles Jacobs said “I’m for a multi-purpose building. A pool alone would never pay. I’m disappointed that those who put time in planning an arena weren’t here to be heard.”

Ron Schmidt said “a multi-purpose unit interests me as I have a young family. I think ice is important, and should be regulated with the schools. Some are negative on the arena because the ice hockey crowd comes on strong. I say trim the fat and give the people what they want.”

SOME SAID there might be duplication in some features of a multi-purpose arena.

Ed Ballard said “I’m for the pool.New Ulm has got more places than anywhere else for other stuff. Gyms all over. We just need to figure out a few things and where to play.”

Carl Knopke said “We need a pool,but do we need an ice rink now? We are in a great multi-purpose building.” (Turner Hall).

Pat Moriarty asked “why a multi-use facility? Doesn’t it duplicate? I believe we have a responsibility to get a swimming pool, but I wonder if other needs aren’t fulfilled if we organize them for use?”

Other speakers included William O’Connor,Janet Mildenberg, Lloyd Steinback, Dan Beranek, Linda Moriarty,Audrey Quiggle,Virginia Burnett, Merlin Boesch and Mrs. Charles Jacobs.

Next meeting in the series is 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Knights of Columbus Hall for residents of the Second Ward. Residents who vote at Holy Trinity and City Hall are in the Second Ward.

New Ulm Daily Journal

May 7, 1976