HomeMy WebLinkAbout101523 Families want a new pool!!ALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them.
Dear city council and board of commissioners,
I imagine it's hard as a public official to make decisions that you feel represent the entirety of a community which naturally has varying opinions and varying ways of expressing those
opinions. As a very busy working parent, with 3 young kids, a professional job, and a working spouse, the day to day routine can be exceedingly full, and I understand how many young
families simply don't have the bandwidth for civic engagement. I’m writing to share that I believe young families in our community are universally in favor of a new aquatic center.
Every family I have spoken with (at school, sports, work) is exceedingly enthusiastic about the city moving forward with a new pool.
Our community has a huge number of school age kids who can't swim (due to pool closures during Covid, lack of swimming lessons, a cold and uninviting pool, and inadequate open swim time
due to competing space with lap swimming and elderly water classes). Local families with strong kid swimmers have achieved this by driving regularly to Sequim, Port Angeles, Bainbridge
and Silverdale in order to access their larger aquatic centers. These newer, inviting facilities which offer different pools for different activities are always busy and thriving.
Swimming is not only a vital life skill, but a wonderful means of year round exercise for all ages. A newer aquatic center gives young families a place to gather, teens a safe and healthy
place to meet their friends and recreate, and adults a place to exercise even on cold, rainy days. A healthy, thriving community must have updated, public recreational facilities. A
new pool will attract people to move to and visit our town, which benefits local businesses and industry.
I feel disheartened when I see the small number of people posting negative signs about the pool around town, and I do not think these represent the majority opinion. I fear, however
the "squeaky wheel will get the grease". Please hear me as I believe I represent the voice of most young families, when I say, "YES to the pool! PLEASE move boldly and courageously
forward now". We won't regret it. This will be a legacy to this community, and one that improves and I would argue saves lives by promoting swimming safety and healthy living.
Many thanks for your service,
Sincerely,
Judy Gayne