The Ojai Parks and Recreation Commission on Sept. 4 received an update on planning for potential programming at Nordoff Pool and discussed next steps, including coordination with the schools and a local nonprofit group. Commissioners said they want representation on any city ad hoc committee and more detailed information before committing to a program model.

Staff said the City Council directed staff to focus on Nordoff Pool because the facility already exists, and staff is gathering scheduling, partnership and program options. Staff reported they have scheduled a meeting with interested parties for the day after the commission meeting to begin specifying hours and operational details.

Commissioners emphasized that the commission remains interested in finding a workable approach but does not yet have enough information to commit. One commissioner said the commission had been characterized as “not interested” in earlier notes and asked to clarify that the commission is “very interested.” Commissioners pressed for details about pool availability and hours, noting availability will drive whether the city can operationally and financially support programming.

A commissioner recalled prior work on pool planning: a community committee and a development commission conducted a survey, and a comprehensive, 40-page report from February 2002 was cited during discussion. Commissioners urged a prudent approach that balances community interest with the city’s capacity; one commissioner suggested agendizing appointment of commission members to an ad hoc committee so the commission has a formal presence in planning.

No formal motions or votes were held on pool policy at this meeting. Staff will continue coordination with the schools and the nascent nonprofit group, and the commission requested staff send interim updates by email and place the creation of an ad hoc committee on a future agenda for appointment.