pages: CityCouncil/2022-02-15.pdf, 24
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CityCouncil | 2022-02-15 | 24 | Urged Council pause the negotiations and reconsider the equity argument that many have made; stated the practice of pool memberships is not inclusive or accessible; expressed support for the use of the pools and volunteerism; stated the pools should be open to everyone or shut down: Seth Marbin, Alameda. Stated that he is a loyal ASPA member; ASPA needs guidance in the pursuit of safety and membership; ASPA is a great model; more equity and access needs to be addressed; expressed support for the City holding quarterly meetings to provide information to members and allow for questions: Marshall Dortch, ASPA and Alameda Gators. Stated in response to the concerns for safety, ASPA has insurance; ASPA has remained insurable; discussed lifeguard qualifications; stated there is room for improvement in the courses; expressed support for the pools continuing with improved operations: Randall Miller, ASPA. Provided a reading excerpt from "The Sum of Us:" Morgan Bellinger, Alameda. Urged Council to renew the lease with ASPA; stated the City can do a better job of advertising available pools to the public; discussed access differences between ASPA and other Alameda pools; stated the membership fees are economical for families; expressed support for scholarship funds to make memberships affordable: Therese Hall, Alameda. Stated more needs to be done to ensure swimming is more accessible for all; expressed support for the City being a partner with ASPA; stated ASPA is a co-op and is open and accessible; the City can help with advertising; urged the City to partner with ASPA; stated the hours are focused on youth swimming: Pam Luo, ASPA. Vice Mayor Vella stated there are equity issues with the matter; discussed her previous use of the pools; noted the ASPA website and pool site has little information posted; expressed concern about the access to the pools being during defined and limited periods of time; stated it is odd to discuss membership on a public resource; expressed concern about safety aspects and little City oversight; expressed support for finding ways to expand public access, for clear information being available and for moving away from the membership model; stated that she appreciates the volunteerism and co-op process; questioned whether there is a reason the City cannot move forward with the same sentiment in opening up the pools to all; stated there is an equity issue with membership and accessibility; she would like to see the pools expanded and opened up to the neighborhood without a membership for access. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated staff is recommending Council provide the authority to negotiate a short-term lease as opposed to entering into an operating agreement; more access to pools and swimming is needed; expressed support a creative and flexible approach to the matter; stated a few items are non-negotiable, including lifeguards; questioned the amount of lifeguards needed; stated pools are required to have insurance; State law requires trained, certified lifeguards be on site; lifeguards should be included as a term of the lease; questioned the consequences of lease terms not being met; stated there are short-comings and safety must be first; expressed support for an automated, online registration system; stated automated systems are a way to ensure the pool is being used to its maximum capacity; discussed costs being a barrier to access; stated many people do not have the $400 membership fee saved; questioned whether there is a way for membership not to be paid in a lump sum; and whether the pool can be made available for people that wish to swim on a one-time or drop-in basis; stated the age Regular Meeting Alameda City Council February 15, 2022 22 | CityCouncil/2022-02-15.pdf |