Placerville residents advocate for extended city pool access and funding solutions

The Placerville City Council is taking steps to ensure the continued operation of the city’s beloved swimming pool, a vital community resource, following discussions during their recent meeting on April 22, 2025. Council members and residents alike expressed strong support for maintaining pool access, particularly for lap swimming, which serves adults and seniors.

During the meeting, council members highlighted the need to review and potentially increase pool fees, which have not been updated since 2020. This adjustment aims to sustain the pool's operations, especially as the demand for lap swimming extends beyond the traditional school season. One council member emphasized the importance of keeping the pool open on weekends until Labor Day, noting the discomfort of having a closed facility during hot summer days.

Public comments reinforced the pool's significance, with resident Joe Rodman sharing personal experiences of how swimming lessons at the facility were crucial for his daughter’s safety. He expressed disappointment over the county's withdrawal of financial support, despite a significant portion of pool users coming from outside the city. Another resident, Ruth Carter, echoed these sentiments and suggested exploring sponsorship opportunities from local businesses to help fund the pool's operations.

The council's commitment to preserving the pool reflects a broader recognition of its role in community health and safety. As discussions continue, the city aims to balance budgetary constraints with the need to maintain this essential service for residents and visitors alike. The next steps will involve evaluating fee structures and potential partnerships to ensure the pool remains a vibrant part of Placerville's community life.