LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- The first of four public meetings focused on new aquatics facilities in Louisville was held Monday.

The budget request for next fiscal year includes funding to study and possibly start work on a new aquatic center.

The center was set to open Memorial Day weekend for the kick-off to summer, but had to stay closed for some maintenance after mechanical issues with the aquatic center's pump systems were found.

Thursday, a Metro Council committee learned the Norton pool on Poplar Level Road and the Algonquin pool in the west end may not open.

Swimmers will be required to practice social distancing in and out of the water and wash their hands. 

A local mother worries that keeping public pools closed is prompting people to go swimming in more dangerous bodies of waters.

Fischer said he knows people are anxious for pools to open, but he said the city is working with state and local health departments to see if it’s even possible.