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Partnership could get pool up, running

Re: People will back swimming pool for public use, Aug. 15 letter to the editor:

There is no doubt Hernando County needs another swimming pool. The question is where do the funds come from to build it and, more importantly, to operate it? Aquatic facilities are very costly to run and someone has to bear the burden of these costs, either the YMCA, another nonprofit agency, a for-profit business, or county taxpayers.

There is a membership fee to join the YMCA. For those who cannot afford the fee, there is a program where financial assistance is provided. No one is turned away from the YMCA for an inability to pay. The YMCA's mission is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build healthy spirit, mind and body for all. That is an inclusive invitation for all to participate regardless of race, religion, background, ability or income.

The Junior Olympic-size pool at the YMCA facility on Mariner Boulevard is used by every segment of our population: schoolchildren, high school swim teams, families, seniors, Special Olympics athletes, military recruits, etc. Many necessary programs are conducted in the YMCA pool. The YMCA conducts a two-week water safety class for every kindergartner in our county's public schools at no cost to the families. High school swim teams conduct practices and hold swim meets there. Exercise classes, swim lessons for children and adults, scuba instruction and physical therapy sessions are a few of the many programs that are held in the YMCA pool.

The YMCA has a long and rich history of running aquatic programs across the country. There are many examples of successful partnerships with parks and recreation departments and YMCAs working together to provide facilities for their communities. Working separately, neither the YMCA nor the county has found a way to provide a second pool for this community. Working together could have positive results that would benefit everyone.

A second pool for our county is needed. Partnering could be a way to accomplish this goal.

Sue Ball

District executive director

YMCA of the Suncoast

Hernando County

Forget the pool; what about whirlpool, sauna?

I think it is great the YMCA wants to expand even more and also put in a public pool. But I have wondered for years why they do not put in a whirlpool and sauna.

Most all YMCAs have a whirlpool. It is great to get out of the water after exercise and relax in the whirlpool.

I am sure the whirlpool would get lots of use and probably bring in new members.

Nancy Eslick, Brooksville

[Last modified August 16, 2006, 07:12:52]