Council approves tile finish for El Segundo iving pool; adds $700,000 option, general fund to cover gap

The El Segundo City Council on May 20 approved using ceramic tile to finish the bottom of both pools at the Uruzwari Swim Stadium, after a staff presentation that compared tile and plaster options.

Parks staff said the tile option’s estimated incremental cost was about $700,000 (a reduction from an earlier $800,000 estimate) versus roughly $560,000 for a plaster finish. Staff and the consultant highlighted several differences: tiles have an expected life of 50 years or more and a 25‑year warranty for materials and waterproofing, seven waterproofing layers and an estimated annual maintenance cost of approximately $12,000. Plaster was presented with a typical life of about 15 years, a three‑year materials/waterproofing warranty, two coats of waterproofing, and roughly $24,000 per year in maintenance.

Council members raised fiscal and programmatic concerns and asked how much additional general‑fund support would be required. Staff stated the additional costs would come from general‑fund resources unless outside fundraising or other sources are secured. Councilmembers noted the project had already exceeded earlier contingencies and that a long‑term durable finish and extended warranty made the tile option more economically prudent over the facility’s lifetime.

After discussion the council voted 5-0 in favor of tile. Mayor Drew Pimentel, Mayor Pro Tem Baldino and Councilmembers Kaldorf, Giroux and Boyle all voted yes. Staff indicated fundraising efforts for naming and donor opportunities would continue and that the project team will update council on donor progress and schedule.