Residents and coaches push Kennewick council for indoor aquatics facility

Multiple swim coaches, club leaders and residents urged the Kennewick City Council on May 6 to prioritize an indoor public aquatics facility, saying the Tri Cities area lacks sufficient year-round pool capacity for lessons, competitive teams and water-safety programs.

Speakers described long waiting lists for teams and lessons, argued indoor facilities would improve public safety and youth opportunities, and asked the council to help move the project from discussion to action. Several speakers said existing pool space is privately owned and fully booked, limiting programs for school teams, Special Olympics, and community lessons.

Who spoke: Jason Hart identified himself as the head coach at Southridge (swim program) and described a school program that taught high-school students to instruct fifth graders; he said an indoor facility would promote “togetherness” and lifetime fitness. Wes Bratton, who lives in Richland and has coached high-school and Special Olympics swimmers, urged creating public indoor facilities for winter instruction. Lisa Tippett said she is the head swim coach at Kennewick High School and said the area’s high schools and swim clubs lack year-round access. Other speakers included Randy Willis, Jesse Grow, Mike Sandbeck and community members who described community need and potential economic and safety benefits.

Council and staff response: Council members praised the turnout and energy of the speakers and discussed possible next steps. Council member Beauchamp suggested the city could help channel community energy toward fundraising or public-private solutions. Council member Anderson and others said the speakers demonstrated momentum and community support; City Manager Dylan Grama acknowledged the need and said the city will work to figure out how to make it happen. No formal action or funding decision occurred at the meeting.

Context and specifics raised by speakers: several presenters cited a recent study (provided to the city the afternoon of the meeting) showing the region’s deficit of indoor competitive pools; one staff or resident comment referenced Benton County’s rapid growth as further justification for expanded aquatics services. Speakers requested year-round lesson availability, more opportunities for Special Olympics and youth programs, and space for competitive meets that could draw visitors.

What the meeting did not decide: council did not vote on funding, siting, design, or a formal plan for an indoor aquatic center. Staff and council suggested exploring options and possibly partnering with community groups, but no specific follow-up tasks or timelines were adopted.