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Park commissioner urges council not to rely solely on 2% tax for pool operations, asks for professional management
Summary
A Sunnyside resident and Park and Recreation Commission member warned the council against assuming a recent 2% tax will fully solve pool-operating needs and urged the city to assign experienced management rather than add duties to an already busy staff member.
During the public comment period at the Feb. 18 Sunnyside City Council study session, a resident and Park and Recreation Commission member urged the council to ensure professional management for the municipal pool rather than relying only on a recent 2% tax increase.
"We all want this to be successful. Correct?" Kennard said, identifying themself as a member of the Park and Recreation Commission and noting personal circumstances as a senior. Kennard said the commission discussed the pool at a recent meeting and that the council had "discussed and passed the proposal for a 2% tax." Kennard said they were concerned that Raul Sanchez would be assigned responsibility for operation: "I'm just really concerned because Raul Sanchez already has a big plate."
Kennard urged separating pool operations from general Parks and Recreation oversight and asked the council not to assume the tax alone will ensure long-term financial and operational success. They recommended the city secure expertise on hours, lifeguard staffing and training to keep the pool sustainable year to year. Kennard said they will continue to support the commission and its work.
The council moved on to its agenda after public comment; no action on the pool operations was taken at the meeting.
