Residents press for public pool; council refers discussion to Parks and Recreation Commission

Several Hermosa Beach residents and youth urged the City Council on June 24 to pursue planning for a public swimming pool as part of the Parks and Recreation program. Speakers included 14‑year‑old Chloe Hirsch, who described swimming as a “necessary” life skill in Hermosa’s coastal community, and resident Jeff Ogan, who recounted personal rehabilitation and community‑level needs for pool space.

Chloe Hirsch said a city pool would provide a safe place for lessons, team practice and community recreation: "A public pool would give everyone, especially kids and families, a safe place to learn and practice." Jeff Ogan and other speakers highlighted long waiting lists for regional pool space, the high cost of private lessons, and potential for partnerships with neighboring cities, including Redondo Beach.

Several councilmembers acknowledged the public interest and the Parks and Recreation master plan’s prior identification of a pool as a community priority. At the meeting’s future‑agenda discussion councilmembers asked that Parks and Recreation examine pool feasibility, including joint‑use possibilities, locations, costs and funding options. Council provided support to refer the matter to the Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration and initial study (referral supported by three councilmembers during the future items discussion).

Ending: The referral asks the Parks and Recreation Commission to review the pool concept and report back to council; it does not commit the city to project funding or a site.