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Seniors urge National City to reopen Las Palmas pool; staff says April target
Summary
Multiple older residents pressed the council for clarity and speed on repairs to Las Palmas pool; Public Works Director Steve Manganell said mechanical parts are being replaced and staff is hopeful the pool will reopen next month in April.
Seniors and regular pool users told the National City City Council they’re frustrated by the extended closure of the Las Palmas pool and asked for a concrete timeline and better communication from city staff.
Yolanda Contreras said she had been told in October that the pool would reopen in March, but the facility remained closed and she said the water-based exercise she depends on for arthritis was unavailable. "We just want the pool open," Contreras told the council.
Public Works Director Steve Manganell replied that the closure has been necessary to undertake comprehensive mechanical and equipment repairs and that many of the necessary parts have been ordered. He said staff is "getting very close to completing all the required work" and the city is "hopeful that we'll be reopening the pool next month in April." Manganell emphasized that pumps and other unseen mechanical systems had to be replaced before the pool is safe to reopen.
Other speakers described the pool as a community hub for older adults and youth lap swimmers and asked the city to provide clearer, regular updates. Councilmembers echoed the need for improved communication and asked staff to provide a short timetable and to prioritize outreach to users, particularly seniors with mobility needs.
What happens next: Staff committed to provide a brief status update and a reopening timetable. Councilmembers asked that staff include information about repairs, parts status and anticipated reopening date in the near-term report.
The exchange illustrated the continued reliance of older residents on municipal recreation facilities and the importance of clear, consistent communication when projects affect vulnerable users.
