The Manhattan Beach Unified School Board has approved the construction of a new 50-meter pool at Mira Costa High School, a decision welcomed by many residents. This facility is intended to meet the growing demand for swimming amenities in the area and is seen as a preferable alternative to earlier proposals for a pool at Polliwog Park.
Local resident Mark Burton expressed gratitude for the board’s decision, stating, “It’s the right size at 50 meters and the right location at Mira Costa High School.” He urged city officials to reconsider plans for an additional swimming pool adjacent to the Bay Club, arguing that the costs associated with building, operating, and maintaining such a facility would ultimately be a financial burden on the city.
With several existing swimming options available, including the South Bay Aquatics Center, Mira Costa High School pool, and Begg Pool for younger children, Burton believes a new pool near the Bay Club is unnecessary. He highlighted the financial implications, noting that the city would likely incur losses rather than generate revenue from a new facility.
Burton suggested that if the city remains committed to adding a pool, a partnership with the City of Redondo Beach to construct it at Aviation Park could be a more viable solution. This collaboration could allow both cities to share the costs associated with construction, operations, and maintenance.
He also proposed alternative uses for the city-owned property adjacent to the Bay Club. “Building a first-class hotel at that site would generate revenue for the city through ground leases and transient occupancy taxes,” Burton stated. He emphasized the importance of exploring options that would be financially prudent rather than incurring potential losses.
Burton concluded by urging the City Council to exercise sound judgment and reject the proposed Bay Club pool project. This sentiment reflects a broader concern among residents regarding fiscal responsibility and the effective use of city resources.
As the decision-making process moves forward, the community will be watching closely to see how city officials respond to these recommendations and whether alternative projects will be prioritized. The approval of the new pool at Mira Costa High School marks a significant step in addressing the swimming needs of Manhattan Beach residents while raising important discussions about the city’s future developments.
