Bossier’s Mike Wood Pool Moving Forward: Just Needed a Little “Cleaning”

Mike Wood Park has had a busy few weeks, but Bossier families may finally be getting the update they wanted. After an alligator was removed from the park and questions continued about the future of Mike Wood Pool, the city now appears to be moving toward a plan that keeps the pool open for the summer. 

That matters because Mike Wood Pool is not just another city amenity. For many families in South Bossier, it is one of the few affordable summer options where kids can swim, cool off, and take part in something close to home. 

City Responds To Alligator Concern 

Bossier City Mayor Tommy Chandler said there was one alligator involved, and the animal will be released in the Ivan area. He said Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries recommended a gentleman from Sarepta to catch it. 

READ MORE: Bossier Council Talks New Deal for Opening Mike Wood Pool

Chandler also said the city is still not sure how the alligator got into the park area, but crews will work to secure it the best they can. That is the kind of practical answer parents want to hear. In Louisiana, wildlife near water is not unusual, but families still need to know that city leaders are paying attention when something shows up where children play. 

Pool Plan Moves Forward 

Bossier City Council recently held a special meeting to discuss a new agreement that could allow Rock Solid Athletic Club to operate Mike Wood Pool. Rock Solid already manages public pools in Shreveport, and the proposed plan would include staffing, lifeguards, and swim lessons. 

City leaders had previously announced the pool would not open this summer, citing concerns about cost, staffing, safety, and usage. That decision drew strong public reaction from residents who did not want to lose Bossier City’s public pool. 

Bossier Council Approves Rock Solid Agreement

PROCEEDINGS OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF BOSSIER CITY STATE OF LOUISIANA TAKEN AT A SPECIAL MEETING MAY 5, 2026  

The City Council of the City of Bossier City, State of Louisiana, met in Regular session in City Courtroom, 620 Benton Road, Bossier City, Louisiana, May 5, 2026 at 3:00 PM. Council President, Chris Smith called the meeting to order.  

Roll Call as follows: Present: Honorable Councilor, President Chris Smith, Honorable Councilors Craton Cochran, Vince Maggio, Brian Hammons, Debra W. Ross, Cliff Smith, and Joel Girouard Also Present: Mayor, Thomas Chandler, City Attorney, Charles Jacobs, and Assistant Clerk, Emily Pitts Assistant Clerk, Emily Pitts read the statement about public participation in the meeting and disclosure of conflicts.  

By: Mr. Brian Hammons Motion to approve Agenda Seconded by Mr. Cliff Smith No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous New Business  

By: Mr. Brian Hammons Motion to introduce an ordinance authorizing Mayor Thomas H. Chandler to execute an agreement with Rock Solid Athletic Club, Inc., related to the management of the swimming pool at Mike Wood Memorial Park during the summer of 2026 and authorizing the Mayor to execute any and all documents related to said agreement.  

Seconded by Mr. Vince Maggio No comment Vote in favor of motion is unanimous 

There being no further business to come before this Council, Council President Smith adjourned the meeting at 3:02 PM 

Families Want Safe Summer Options 

The bigger picture is simple. Bossier families want safe, affordable places to go during the summer. If the partnership is approved, Mike Wood Pool could reopen within a few weeks, giving families another option before the hottest part of the year arrives.