HomeMy WebLinkAbout112023 email In support of a new aquatics facility for Jefferson CountyALERT: BE CAUTIOUS This email originated outside the organization. Do not open attachments or click on links if you are not expecting them.
Dear Board of County Commissioners,
I fully support a new aquatic facility for Jefferson County for several reasons. As a longtime teacher in Port Townsend schools, I have seen first-hand the power of swim lessons provided
by the school district; the excitement in so many kids' faces as they conquer their fear of the water, the smiles on those who may struggle academically but feel at home and excel in
the water, and those who discover the joy of swimming. The same has been true for students in Quilcene schools. I have seen their excitement as we exit the pool and they began their
lessons.
As a past swim coach for the club team, the Barracudas which later became the Redfins, and as the head coach for East Jefferson Girls Swimming for the last 12 years, I see how swim teams
provide an amazing avenue for sportsmanship, perseverance and celebration. For both teams we have had swimmers residing throughout East Jefferson County.
For ten years, I was fortunate to serve on the board of JeffCo Aquatic Coalition. During that time I made many close connections with seniors who rely on the pool to maintain an active
and healthy lifestyle. During the COVID shutdown, the option of swimming was halted as was the ability to exercise for many seniors. When the pool reopened, it was readily apparent
the negative impact the time without access to the pool had for so many, especially seniors.
Young kids in elementary school, kids of a range of ages on swim teams, and our senior population are just three groups who rely on the pool. Families during open swim, lap swimmers,
water walkers, deep and shallow water aerobics participants, scuba students, high school underwater robotics, the list of pool users goes on and on; users who live throughout our community.
There are those who suggest the problems of the pool can be fixed but there are far too many mechanical and physical issues already. I am amazed and thankful it is still operable but
the pool’s life is limited. To say the current pool’s design is subpar is being way too kind. It’s small, short and lacks amenities found in modern day aquatic facilities. A new pool
with more than one tank would meet the community’s needs and the current facility does not. Families, school kids, seniors and more; our community benefits from a well designed aquatic
facility.
I urge you to support this exciting endeavor.
Sincerely,
Peter Braden
2nd grade teacher, Salish Coast Elementary
Head Coach East Jefferson Girls Swimming
A guy who thinks the pool is great for all.