The new operator of the Hankey Farms swimming pool is working up some magic for special events this season at the North Fayette facility. Some of his ideas so far include magicians and movies, music and dancing, and nonalcoholic wine and cheese parties.
"We have lots of ideas," said Bob Miller, the swimming coach at West Allegheny School District, who will run the pool with his daughter, Stacy, under the banner of Miller Swimming. "We're open to suggestions."
Miller has inked a two-year lease of the pool with the township, with an option for a third year. He will operate it as a for-profit business. North Fayette accepted proposals from for-profits after the previous operator dropped out and its search for a nonprofit operator came up empty.
Miller said he plans to open the pool May 29, its traditional opening date.
"We're pleased it's going to open," said supervisors Chairman Dan Fink. The township had been taking employment applications and preparing to run the pool itself if an operator could not be found.
Miller said there will be only slight increases in fees, most of which can be avoided if patrons sign up early.
Individual memberships will cost $65, up from $60, and family memberships will cost $147, up from $140. Those who sign up by June 7 get a $5 discount.
A new membership level for two people, such as a husband and wife or parent and child, will cost $125. Daily admission is $4 for adults, $2 for children ages 5 to 15, and free for children younger than 5 with a paying adult.
The pool will open a half hour earlier, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Miller, 50, who now lives in Cranberry, Butler County, said he once managed a pool in his hometown of Kutztown, Berks County.
"I love being around pools. It's something that I enjoy," he said.
In addition to special events, Miller said he's planning morning aerobics classes, swimming lessons and morning lap swimming. He's thinking of adding a horseshoe pit to the facility and putting in a small miniature golf course next year.
Miller said he hopes to be the pool's operator for a long time.
"This first year is going to be a real challenge. My goal this year is for me on my end to break even. I think we can do that," Miller said. "We'll see after two or three years where we're at and what the township wants to do."
