Dear Menlo Park City Council Members,
I’ve been swimming at Menlo Park for decades, starting when the pool was 33 1/3 yards long. It’s been a long, happy association, particularly because of Menlo Masters, which provides multiple workouts daily and encourages everyone to swim regularly.
I’’ve heard lately that you’re trying to drive out current pool management and would like to know why. Tim Sheeper runs many successful programs that bring people to the pool, and all that will be lost if you make him leave.
Originally he took over the pool because after re-building the complex the city didn’t have enough money and announced that it couldn’t open—before summer, when many people want to use the pool. Instead it opened successfully, and the city again had a pool. Many cities don’t operate throughout the year, while Mr. Sheeper keeps it open year-round, so that people can maintain their fitness.
Can you please explain what the problem is with having Mr. Sheeper operate successful operation at the pool, and what the city is proposing that will improve the situation? Or are you prepared to accept what may be a reduction in revenue if his programs leave with him? Will Menlo Park only operate the pool in the summer instead of year-round? Are the proposals meant to enhance the operation for residents and non-residents, or do you only want Menlo Park residents to use the pool?
Thank you for addressing this matter.
—Carol Mathews
