Greencastle Aquatic Center closed by Health Department

Just ahead of one of its busiest swimming weekends, the Greencastle Aquatic Center was closed by the Putnam County Health Department. 

The closure was the most recent of several incidents where the aquatic center has been closed at various points this summer. 

According to a closure notice on the door, the health department and its authorized agents closed the aquatic center for being in violation of Rule 410 IAC 6-2.1-43(a) and Putnam County Ordinance 2016-3-7. Rule 410 IAC 6-2.1-43 pertains to reasons for closure and a pool shall be closed when any of the following occurs: (A) bacteriological requirements of section 31(f), 42.1(b)(15) or 42.1(b)(16) of this rule; (B) disinfectant concentrations of section 30(b), 42.1(b)(1) of this rule; or the water clarity requirements of section 31(a) or 42.1(b)(13) of this rule. 

"It is hereby ordered that as of July 2, 2025, no one shall use the swimming pool or spa until it is inspected and found to be in compliance with Rule 410 IAC 6-2.1 and Ordinance 2016-3-7 by the Putnam County Health Department," the closure notice states. 

The notice will remain posted on the door of the aquatic center until compliance is met and can only be removed by Putnam County health officials. 

The pool use or lack of has been a point of contention for several residents this summer, including one resident who had asked for a refund of almost $1,000 for pool passes she purchased for her grandchildren. 

In addition, the city has spent thousands of dollars over the last year for chemicals and plumbing parts for both the city pool and the splash pad, including a recent expenditure of $19,875 for parts for the splash pad.

In April, Greencastle Mayor Lynda Dunbar spoke with The Putnam County Post about some of the "new and exciting things at the pool" for the summer.

"The pool has a new filter system in it. We invested a chunk of money in that and should save money in chemicals. It will be much more efficient and we shouldn't have too many problems not passing our tests," Dunbar said. 

The Putnam County Post reached out to both Dunbar and Greencastle Parks and Recreation Director Jason Keeney seeking comment about the latest closure.