Westshore Pool’s Final Chapter
The Westshore Pool was built and operated under a joint agreement between the Lakeport Unified School District (LUSD), the County of Lake, and the City of Lakeport. It provided recreation, much-needed swim lessons for our youth, relief from heat for everyone, and a home for the local swim team for over 30 years.
Like all aging structures it eventually needed to be repaired or replaced. In 2014, the past Lakeport Unified School Board and superintendent proposed a bond issue for a food service dining area, a new library/computer center and a new swimming pool. With much public support by myself and others the public approved the bond for the described projects. At that point the past school board went “off the rails” and approved extravagant projects that in my opinion vastly exceeded the scope, scale, and cost of the “advertised” bond projects. The dining area became a $4.2 million culinary arts kitchen and cafeteria and the library/computer center became a multi-million dollar three-story high edifice that only has one floor and $10,000 power windows for ventilation. It looks more like a government monument or religious shrine than a simple building to house books and computers.
When the voters in 2018 tossed out the school board that wasted most of the bond funds the newly elected board’s hands were tied and there wasn’t enough money to build a new pool. The idea to repair the existing pool was scrapped when it was discovered that it had been allowed to go dry and had “popped out of the ground” rendering it unusable.
The School Board is now soliciting bids for what is entitled the” Westshore Pool Demolition Project”. I understand this action is prompted by trespass and safety issues that are well-founded. That will be the end of this valuable community asset.
The South County enjoys the Middletown Pool paid for by all the taxpayers of the County. The North County has no place for swim lessons that save lives or swim teams. It is time for the City of Lakeport, the County, and the LUSD to step up and work together to build the pool that serves the north end of the County. It does not need to be a lavish project, just a pool like they have in Middletown. We have an election coming up for the county supervisor who represents the greater Lakeport area. We need a person who can teamwork and get this important project build and going for our most valuable asset, our youth.
—Bob Bridges, Lakeport.
No more positive COVID cases at shelter
Sunrise Special Services Foundation (SSSF) is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support to its community and is thrilled to announce a momentous achievement in the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic. After implementing stringent safety protocols and tirelessly working to safeguard the health of its staff and clients, the foundation has successfully reached a milestone of zero positive cases as of Monday, July 17, 2023.
This noteworthy accomplishment comes after a series of consistent efforts and diligent monitoring of the COVID-19 situation within the organization. The following is a breakdown of the confirmed cases leading up to this significant milestone:
Thursday, July 6, 2023: Out of 31 individuals tested, 18 were confirmed positive for COVID-19. Saturday, July 8, 2023: Out of 18 individuals tested, 13 were confirmed positive for COVID-19. Thursday, July 13, 2023: Out of 18 individuals tested, 5 were confirmed positive for COVID-19. Saturday, July 15, 2023: Out of 18 individuals tested, 3 were confirmed positive for COVID-19.
Sunday, July 16, 2023: Out of 18 individuals tested, 1 was confirmed positive for COVID-19. Monday, July 17, 2023: No positive cases were reported, achieving a significant milestone of zero positive cases.
SSSF has been unwavering in its commitment to the health and safety of its guests and staff throughout the pandemic. The foundation has diligently followed guidelines provided by health authorities, implemented comprehensive safety measures, and continuously adapted its protocols based on the evolving situation. By prioritizing the well-being of everyone involved, SSSF has successfully mitigated the risk of COVID-19 transmission within its facilities.
This achievement is a testament to the dedication and resilience demonstrated by the foundation’s support staff, and leadership. The tireless efforts of these individuals, coupled with the unwavering support of the community, have played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety and well-being of all those associated with SSSF.
As the foundation celebrates this remarkable milestone of zero COVID-19 cases, it remains vigilant and committed to maintaining the highest standards of safety. SSSF will continue to monitor the situation closely, adapt protocols as necessary, and work diligently to protect the health and well-being of its clients and staff.
SSSF extends its deepest gratitude to its dedicated team, partners, and community members for their ongoing support and cooperation in the fight against COVID-19. Together, we have proven that through collaboration, resilience, and unwavering commitment, we can overcome even the most challenging of circumstances.
Rayan Aava, Chief Executive Officer, Sunrise Special Services Foundation
