Hinsdale officials say children’s activity-pool bids opened; staff aim for spring reopening after IDPH review

Village staff told the Parks and Recreation Commission that bids for the children’s activity (baby) pool were opened on July 14 and that Williams (the village consultant) will evaluate the four bids and recommend a contractor to the village trustees. Staff said the trustees will consider the recommendation at a first read and then a second read in August under the village’s timetable.

"Today, was the bid opening," a parks staff presenter said, noting four bidders were received and that Williams will perform due diligence on completeness and compliance. Staff stressed the IDPH permitting process is already underway and warned that IDPH review can take time; the stated objective is to start work this fall, complete construction in the spring and open the renovated children’s pool in May of next year.

The aquatics report reviewed revenue and expense trends for the 2025 season. Staff said membership and program revenue rose in 2025 — partly because neighboring pools in Clarendon Hills and Western Springs were closed or had mechanical issues — and the pool saw increased swim lessons and a new fitness class that staff called "a phenomenal hit." Despite an operating profit in 2024 and 2025, staff cautioned that one-time baby-pool repair costs and utility increases pushed expenses higher this season.

Staff also described operational improvements and maintenance projects implemented during 2025, including upgraded flow meters, replacement of lane-line equipment, purchase of additional lounge chairs and enhanced signage for lane lines to reduce conflicts between lap swimmers and recreating children. An IDPH audit was conducted during the season and staff reported the pool passed with no major findings.

Why it matters: The baby-pool project and broader aquatics operations have both budgetary and programmatic implications for village recreation offerings; staff said operating surpluses return to the general fund and highlighted the trade-offs between immediate project timing and waiting for master-plan guidance.

Next steps: Williams will evaluate the bids and issue a recommendation to the trustees; staff will proceed with permitting steps and report back on contractor selection and the trustees’ decision. Aquatics staff will incorporate survey results and resident feedback into future programming and the baby-pool design.