Monrovia parents, students press school board to fix long-closed Monrovia High pool

Community members urged the Monrovia Unified School District board in public comment to repair the Monrovia High School pool, which they said has been "unused for 10 months" and is in "very bad condition." Karen DeClue, speaking during the Aug. 13 and Aug. 27 meetings, told the board the pool closure has affected student athletics, summer jobs and senior citizens who rely on a local, accessible facility.

The public outcry centered on the lack of published design plans and a timeline for repairs. Board member comments and the meeting presenters said designs for the pool were expected to appear on the Sept. 10 board meeting agenda. Board members and supporters said the district and city have discussed partnering and that bond and state funds are available to cover infrastructure repairs.

Why it matters: Monrovia residents and parents said the pool closure affects equity and access to recreational and school-based programming, summer lifeguard job pathways and local businesses that benefit from events. Speakers noted that renting outside pools has cost the district thousands and forced teams to practice late at night.

At the Aug. 27 meeting, speakers emphasized the level of public support: "47 unique individuals" attended or commented in favor of restoring the pool, signaling broad community interest, according to meeting remarks. Board members reiterated the district will post the pool designs on the Sept. 10 agenda for public review and comment.

What the board has said and done: The board ratified a facility-use agreement with the YMCA to provide pool access for swim and water polo teams while repairs are pending. Presenters told the board there is roughly $25 million available in the next bond draw and roughly $10 million of Measure funds earmarked to address operational bell, public-address and clock systems; district and bond managers said state modernization grants and Measure MM dollars can be combined to fund eligible infrastructure projects, including pool modernization if the work fits bond rules.

Outstanding details: Meeting remarks indicated that the pool designs were delayed but expected on Sept. 10; no firm construction start date or final cost estimate was announced at the Aug. 27 meeting. Speakers noted some repairs or improvements—such as painting or certain landscaping—may not qualify as bond-eligible "infrastructure" under the bond’s restrictions, and that some cosmetic work would need other funding sources.

Next steps: The board signaled it will present pool designs on the Sept. 10 agenda for review and public comment and continue discussions with the city and district bond managers about funding sources for reopening the pool.