Parks commissioner urges Murrieta council to decide fate of long‑closed Cal Oaks Pool, restrooms

John Honeyman, a member of Murrieta's Parks and Recreation Commission, told the City Council at a workshop that Cal Oaks Pool has been closed for years because deferred maintenance and lack of ADA upgrades left the facility inoperable.

Honeyman said parts are no longer manufactured for the aging pool equipment and the city’s prior councils repeatedly delayed repairs. "If they do want 1, what happens now? And if not, what happens to that area?" he asked, noting the pool basin now contains standing rainwater and that the same structure houses the park’s only restrooms, which visiting tournament teams have described as substandard.

Why it matters: the site is used by local residents and visiting youth sports teams, so its condition affects both quality of life and the city's image during tournaments. Honeyman suggested alternatives if the city decides not to reopen the pool: additional pickleball courts, picnic areas, or a splash pad. He also said the Parks and Recreation Commission would prefer the council not "kick the can down the road" and asked for clearer policy and funding direction.

Staff and council response: assistant staff indicated the pool and associated facility are currently low priority in the city's documents and that no funding has been identified for repairs; the council requested staff incorporate public and commission input for future agenda consideration.

No formal action was taken at the workshop; staff was asked to return with options and cost estimates if the council wants to consider temporary preservation or a long‑term repurposing plan.