An insecure in-ground swimming pool at an Ellenwood residence was determined to be a public safety hazard, and the Henry County Board of Commissioners voted March 6 to give code enforcement officials the go-ahead to remove the problem.

A dilapidated security fence, gate and pool cover along with excessive vegetation growth created the problem at 1039 Strawberry Lane, officials said, creating unrestricted access for children who could fall into the pool and become trapped. A number of complaints were filed with code enforcement, and numerous attempts to locate the property owner or another responsible party were unsuccessful.

County code allows staff to fill in the pool and take other needed action while also filing suit on the county’s behalf to recoup the $6,300 estimated cost.