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With Melvindale’s pool closed, children try swimming in the Rouge; Public safety officials quickly post signs banning it

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Interim Melvindale Police Chief Dan Jones said, at the June 16 city council meeting, that children have been swimming in the Rouge River at the boat ramp, which is northwest of the Melvindale Civic Center, which is unsafe, and urged the immediate posting of a “no swimming” sign.

By SUE SUCHYTA
Sunday Times Newspapers

“The kids are using the boat ramp for a swimming hole,” he said. “I went down there today, and I don’t think it is a safe place for them to swim.”

Jones urged the installation of “no swimming” signs immediately.

DPW director Larrie Ordus said he would order signs immediately, while city councilman and assistant fire chief Steve Densmore suggested a homemade sign be put in place the next day.  

City Councilman Joe Jackson, who was acting as Mayor Pro Tem in Mayor Wheeler Marsee’s absence, said he has no idea if any funds were available to reopen the pool, which would normally open on Memorial Day, finances permitting. He said he would consult with city official Rich Ortiz and with Marsee, when he returns, to see what is possible.