Indianapolis residents may face closed community pools and broken equipment due to a crisis within Indy Parks, according to former employees. The department, which boasts 218 parks and 20 aquatic centers, is plagued by underfunding, a lack of sustainability, and toxic leadership.

Systemic Issues

Former employees describe a culture of internal retaliation, favoritism, and extreme micromanagement. The department’s Deputy Director of Programming and Operations is accused of harboring a personal agenda that has decimated staff morale and triggered an influx of Human Resources complaints.

The city’s funding for Indy Parks is less than $20 per resident, compared to neighboring Hamilton County’s $300 per resident. This has led to poor craftsmanship and a lack of maintenance, with staff often using duct tape and glue to keep facilities running.

Safety Concerns

Former employees also raise concerns about inadequate safety training and emergency protocols. Staff received no guidance on how to handle firearms inside community facilities after changes to Indiana gun laws. Other safety failures include a violent fight at Garfield Park and a lack of heating in warming shelters during winter blizzards.

Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.