Palmer Events Center
Save Free Swim!
RECEIVED Tue., March 2, 2010
Dear “Postmarks,”
Brace yourself. Another beloved Austin tradition is on the chopping block. The evening free swim at Barton Springs is on the verge of elimination. Prepare to pay $3 to squeeze in less than an hour of pool time. But it's not about money; the swim's just too popular. Aquatic Program Coordinator Wayne Simmons alleges an increase in “undesirable activities” but offers scant specifics. At a time when many people are struggling and family recreation budgets are stretched, the free swim should be preserved, not gutted. Raising the fee merely penalizes the disadvantaged, and it won't alleviate alleged problems. If you have several hundred dollars burning a hole in your pocket, you'll love this policy. It will also create a logistical nightmare. A dip in the springs saves electricity, less AC, not to mention the collective sanity of the city. Your council members need to know: Save the free swim!
Brace yourself. Another beloved Austin tradition is on the chopping block. The evening free swim at Barton Springs is on the verge of elimination. Prepare to pay $3 to squeeze in less than an hour of pool time. But it's not about money; the swim's just too popular. Aquatic Program Coordinator Wayne Simmons alleges an increase in “undesirable activities” but offers scant specifics. At a time when many people are struggling and family recreation budgets are stretched, the free swim should be preserved, not gutted. Raising the fee merely penalizes the disadvantaged, and it won't alleviate alleged problems. If you have several hundred dollars burning a hole in your pocket, you'll love this policy. It will also create a logistical nightmare. A dip in the springs saves electricity, less AC, not to mention the collective sanity of the city. Your council members need to know: Save the free swim!
James W. Apfelbaum