The Frederick City Council is deciding on whether or not to keep the city swimming pool closed this year. The persistent drought conditions and strict water restrictions imposed upon city residents have the council members if the closing is warranted. “I don’t know if I’m ready to say, ‘let’s open it,’” Mayor Eddie Whitworth said during Tuesday’s council meeting. “Lake levels are not where we want to see them,” he added. The trend is still going the wrong way,” City Manager Robert Johnston added. “Water restrictions remain in effect,” he said. “There’s no need to change anything.” Johnston went on to tell the council, “We’re not in a position to open the pool soon due to a lack of certified lifeguards. We would be hard pressed to open on Memorial Day.” Johnston said it takes 565 thousand gallons of water to fill the pool and another 400 thousand to maintain it over the summer. The council made no decision during the meeting. They did approve several reappointments to city commissions. The council approved Willie Perkins and Don Walker to the Planning Commission; Andy Bennett and Gary Gray to the Airport Commission and Cheryl Orr to the Library Board. Clyde Amyx was reappointed Municipal Judge. The council voted to partner with the Frederick Arts and Humanities Council on the upcoming Smithsonian Institution New Harmonies exhibit. The exhibit, featuring American Roots music, will be held in Frederick from August 10 until September 21 this year. It will feature nationally known musicians as well as local performers. Arts and Humanities Council president Dana Greer told the council the exhibit will require a lot of volunteers. “And we hope to see local retailers take advantage of the exhibit,” she said. Greer said schools, nursing homes, and many other organizations are being invited to the hands-on, entertaining exhibit. The council voted to have City Attorney Pat Kent draft a contract between the city council and the Arts and Humanities Council.