After months in subcommittee meetings, the village's Graydon task force updated Village Council on progress at the village's natural-bottomed pool.

Councilman Patrick Mancuso and Director of Parks and Recreation Tim Cronin outlined improved areas and methods to drum up membership for the contentious facility.

"Our water quality has never been better," Mancuso said. "To a certain extent, the perceptions are the problem."

Cronin attributed improved water quality to a biocatalyst—AQ-C28—that allows chlorine to be more efficient.

Over the past few years, Graydon has become a source of debate. Declining membership led some residents to suggest renovation options—with some plans yielding a concrete-bottomed pool. Other residents have protested that movement and suggest negative publicity has caused decreased membership more than facts.

Formed in October 2009, the Graydon subcommittee comprises members from both sides, village employees, and Mayor David Pfund. Mancuso serves as the committee's chair.

Since formation, Mancuso said the group has viewed several proposals that seek to remedy a host of Graydon's perceived problems—including water quality, animal control, marketing and membership.

For the upcoming season, the committee's implemented several possible solutions. In addition to the biocatalyst, Cronin said heavier sand will make water clearer—as it sinks to the bottom instead of getting kicked around.

Councilman Paul Aronsohn asked if decreased membership could be linked to improved water quality.

"It stands to reason that less people in the water would affect the water quality," he said.

After a back-and-forth, Cronin said he didn't see the correlation.

Operating at a $130,000 deficit last year, Graydon Pool will impose higher rates this season. Earlier in the meeting, council approved a $10 increase in most seasonal badge rates. Residents may purchase early bird badges at last year's price prior to May 23. The new rates are:

• New adult—$87
• New child—$77
• Renewal adult—$82
• Renewal child—$72

Seniors—who formerly weren't charged—will now pay $15. Additionally, late season rates and new coupon books were eliminated. 

While Graydon's budget will be discussed over the coming weeks, Cronin seeks additions to marketing. The committee recommends a coupon for families to visit the pool for free and judge improvements for themselves. In addition, Cronin wants a banner in Van Neste Square to advertise the facility on top of creating a Graydon newsletter.

Graydon opening weekend (June 5) will be a free weekend, as well. Once again, Ho-Ho-Kus and Midland Park residents will be able to join Graydon.

Aronsohn also asked about handicapped access, saying the sand is trying at best for people with canes. Cronin said he would look into the possibility of temporary ramps.

Although prospects for a request for proposal were not discussed, committee members from both sides have said an RFP is likely to come soon. Over the coming weeks, Graydon's budget impact will be on the table.