Editor:
I am writing this letter in support of the local swimming pool levy. Last week a letter to the editor stated that the pool cost our school district $500,000 to run annually.
I am sure that if this were the case our pool would have had to close its doors years ago. The actual numbers estimated to keep our pool available to the community are approximately $135,000. The levy that passed two years ago is unfortunately coming to an end and has to be approved once again. That being said, this will not be a tax increase for anyone, only a continuation of what we as community taxpayers agreed upon two years ago.
This pool has been such an asset to our town for as long as it has been open. There are thousands upon thousands of children who have learned how to swim as well as respect the water at our community pool. This is of course imperative given that we live near and utilize so many recreational waterways. In addition, our local fire department water rescue and dive teams train at the pool on a regular basis. The pool is also a place where kids of all ages can spend a summer afternoon or an evening in a supervised and safe setting during free swims.
Any and all activities that keep our youth busy in a positive way is great if you ask me. It is also a source of employment for many of our teens as both lifeguards and swim instructors.
There are also water aerobics classes through both the district and LBCC that help our citizens, especially the elderly, injured or disabled to be able to stay active.
I personally taught water aerobics classes for over 10 years and was amazed at the health benefits and differences in everyday life that this activity made for so many. In addition, multiple different lap swimming sessions are offered to our community members as an exercise option.
Our local swim team is also thriving. We have approximately 45 kids ages 6-18 who are members of the Sweet Home Swim Club. These kids work very hard on a daily basis and have done our small town very proud over the years.
We have multiple state champions and kids who have competed at regional and national levels as well as many who have received college scholarships for the swimming abilities.
Please join me in support of this valuable local resource and vote yes on the local pool levy as Sweet Home can no afford to lose its pool!
Rachel Tyler
Sweet Home