City of Somerville header
File #: 208961    Version: 1
Type: Communication Status: Placed on File
File created: 9/25/2019 In control: City Council
On agenda: 9/26/2019 Final action: 2/13/2020
Enactment date: 9/26/2019 Enactment #: 208961
Title: Director of Parks and Recreation responding to #208816 re: maintenance and staffing at the Kennedy School Pool.

  Agenda Text

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Director of Parks and Recreation responding to #208816 re: maintenance and staffing at the Kennedy School Pool.

 

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Official Text

To the Honorable City Council:

 

In response to #Docket 208816

 

That the Director of Parks and Recreation provide an update on maintenance activities for the Kennedy School Pool, as well as anticipated staffing and capital spending needs related to aquatics.

 

Departmental response.

 

The Kennedy Pool is currently undergoing an extensive maintenance project. 
Somerville Auxiliary Fire Department removed all water in both pools. 

The inside of the pool has undergone an acid wash and deep cleaning of the tiles, gutters and stainless steel.  Any loose or damaged tiles have been removed and are in the process of being replaced

 

The stainless steel deck drains surrounding the entire pool have been removed and will soon be replaced with new custom built stainless steel covers.  This drainage issue is being resolved currently. 

Lane line brackets are being tested and replaced if necessary. Depth markers will be removed and replaced with new markings.  Additionally, all 4 main drain covers will be replaced with Virginia Graham Baker Act approved covers.

The next steps are to re-grout all of the tiles inside of the pool with bright white grout, and on the deck with grey grout. 

Multiple plumbing issues in the filter room are in the works to be repaired or fixed.  New chemical tubes will be installed, in addition to, release valves to assist with consistency in the temperature of the small pool.  Loose or damaged deck tiles and tiled benches will be repaired and replaced.  The pool will need to be filled back up with water and balanced to ideal chlorine and chemical levels for swimmers before reopening. We anticipate reopening in early October.

Regarding staffing we are currently advertising for swim instructors and lifeguards. Further capital needs may included additional monies for old filter removal, drains replacement along interior walls,  a possible bridge between the big and small pools, additional signage, and  locker room upgrades. A new filter was budgeted however, removal costs may exceed budget amount due to intensive labor required. Additionally, throughout the year we will be assessing the need for an Aquatics Director in FY21.

 

Please contact me if I can be of further assistance.

 

Jill Lathan

Director of Parks & Recreation