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By Scott Mims | Community Columnist

It was announced recently that the city of Clanton has kicked off construction of the new splash pad in Clanton City Park. Comments on the story’s social media posts conveyed excitement from residents who have been wanting such a facility in the area.

As a local parent, I was also glad to hear about the splash pad. Having literally traveled north and south to locate these in past summers, we are thrilled about the idea of using less gas to find a source of recreation. It will be a welcome convenience to families seeking relief from the sweltering heat we experience each July, August and early September (and sometimes earlier, and later!)

Of course, growing up, we made our own kind of “splash pad.” It consisted of a kiddie pool in the backyard and a few hours of freedom to use the water hose. This sometimes culminated in water fights or—if things got super serious—water balloon wars. But in the end, everybody benefitted from the cooling refreshment.

But homemade splash pads can only go so far, especially if your child does not have a lot of other kids living in the neighborhood. For that reason, this facility will be a great way to bring the community together, and it might even bring a few tax dollars in—or keep some here that would otherwise go to our neighboring cities.

Anytime our tax money can bring new amenities like this through our local government, it is a positive thing. I’m sure local kids will agree—and even those parents who sometimes like to steal a splash or two.