Levy Approval is next step to healthy swimming

To the Editor:

I am an elected Board Commissioner of the newly formed Columbia County Park & Recreation Pool District (District), approved by voters on November 7, 2023. The creation of our District was accomplished as an unfunded entity with the power to levy a tax only as the Board and local voters recommend.

This formative year, we have been diligent in creating a foundation to move forward and replace our pool, closed after the 2017season due to maintenance and operational issues.

For almost a decade now; local kids, adults and visitors have not had the privilege of learning to and swimming locally. Our community does not have a safe place to cool off from hot summers and engage in this healthy activity. Youth have not competed with regional swim teams, there is no adult aquasize, lap swim, or night swims. Volunteer and job opportunities are not available for young adults and adults. Dayton needs a pool.

The Commissioners are asking for voter support for an annual levy of 0.20/$1000 valuation to begin planning and reconstruction of our once-beloved pool. I fondly recall summer swim meets with rural neighboring communities; Pomeroy, Colfax, Endicott, Plummer, etc. Our kids became excellent swimmers and were safe around water, establishing healthy, life-long, lifesaving skills. I enjoy lap swimming.

Our efforts will literally drown without your support. Please vote yes for the pool in Columbia County on November 5.

Thank you,

Lisa Naylor

Dayton, Wash.