To the Menlo Park City Council,
I am a 20-year-old Menlo Park resident recently returned home from college. I’m writing to express my strong support for Team Sheeper and their continued operation of the Burgess and Belle Haven pools.
Growing up in Menlo Park, Burgess Pool was more than just a facility to me—it was a place of learning, growth, and connection. I learned to swim there and went on to become a dedicated swimmer and water polo player at Menlo-Atherton High School. Those early experiences shaped my identity and built a deep sense of community that I continue to value today.
Now, as I begin to re-establish myself in Menlo Park as a young adult, I’m looking forward to joining the adult masters swimming and Menlo Mavens water polo programs. These vibrant, high-quality programs are a rare asset in any city—and their excellence is a direct result of Team Sheeper’s deep expertise and commitment to aquatic programming.
Team Sheeper has created programs that go far beyond what’s typically offered in a municipal setting. A change or disruption in pool operations puts all of this progress at risk, and I urge the Council to consider the significant impact this would have on both current residents and future generations.
I also strongly support expanding these programs to the Belle Haven campus. However, expecting Team Sheeper to carry the financial burden of that expansion alone is not sustainable or fair. As a city, we have a responsibility to invest in public resources that benefit all residents. Expanding access to swimming and water sports is a public good, and it should be funded accordingly through municipal support.
I hope the Council recognizes the outstanding service Team Sheeper provides our community and chooses to not only continue the partnership but to enhance it with financial support, especially as the program grows to serve more of Menlo Park.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Coral Rothenberg
Cotton Street Menlo Park Resident
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