pages: CityCouncil/2022-02-15.pdf, 15
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CityCouncil | 2022-02-15 | 15 | Expressed support for previous comments; stated aquatics in Alameda are extremely important; stated aquatics in Alameda increased during COVID-19; there are enough programs to support having a City-owned pool: Amelia McDonald, Alameda Masters, Alameda Gators and Jets. Stated water sports have played an important part in her life since she was young; there have been instances of insufficient time for swim teams to successfully practice; many programs share the pool at Alameda High School; expanded pool space is important and would make a huge difference for all users; Alameda needs a safe pool and more space: Annabel Fiero, Alameda High Swim Team, Alameda Gators and Neptunes. Urged Council to revamp Emma Hood at a minimum; stated the pool is unusable for any serious use; Franklin and Lincoln pools are a good stop gap measure for the Gators and other uses; however, the pools are not good for swim teams; the City must have a prime swimming facility; Alameda Point presents an opportunity with enough space; discussed the San Ramon Swim Center; urged Council to implement a similar program in Alameda: Brendan Macaulay, Alameda. Expressed support for comments provided by Speaker Macaulay; stated that she is an avid lap swimmer; aquatic facilities help children learn how to swim and provide space for student athletes; redoing Emma Hood and providing an additional swim center site at Alameda Point would be the best scenario; urged Council to consider looking at Alameda Point; stated swimming has kept her going through the pandemic: Julie Lyons, Alameda. Expressed support for more pools, the renovation of Emma Hood and placing a larger pool at Alameda Point; stated the natatorium looks great; expressed support for adding a rooftop café; stated that she would like better access to pools and free swim programs: Carmen Reid, Alameda. Expressed support for the City having a new pool and upgrading the current pool; stated that her children have benefitted from the pools in Alameda; however, upgrades are needed; expressed concern about the fees and membership policies resulting in many Alamedans being excluded from community pools; stated access to pools has been exclusionary: Iris Mitchell, Alameda. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested clarification on the direction to be provided by Council. The Recreation and Parks Director stated staff is looking for direction about whether Council would like staff to pursue a partnership with the Alameda Unified School District (AUSD) or proceed with a City aquatics center; the concept for a City aquatics center is in the beginning stages and many steps will come before Council in terms of financing and design. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft expressed support for both options; stated that she learned to swim at Emma Hood pool; questioned whether there is a way to include the matter in the upcoming budget presentations; stated that she would like Council to think big; a City pool would be a community investment; the School Board has not voted to place the bond measure on the ballot yet; stated the measure would still need to pass; Council must consider different scenarios, including the measure not passing. Councilmember Knox White stated prior to the pandemic, Council discussed wholly funding the swim center project with AUSD; no decisions have been made; however, the City is not in the Regular Meeting Alameda City Council February 15, 2022 13 | CityCouncil/2022-02-15.pdf |