I need to add my voice to those who are supporting Proposition 1, to build the Aquatics Recreation Center (ARC). Juanita Pool has lived a long life, offering a year-round facility for swim lessons, SCUBA, high school swimming and many other programs. The programs at Juanita Pool are in high demand. But, when Juanita closes, we will see these programs come to an end. We need a new facility that provides a home for these activities for our children and Kirkland residents in the future. The thought of a city as large and active as Kirkland without a year-round swimming facility boggles the mind.

The ARC is multi-functional – it is a community center, meeting space, gymnasium and swimming pool. It will support the programs offered at Juanita pool, plus much more. I hear critics calling the Metropolitan Park District a “blank check.” But the Metropolitan Park District will be managed by the Kirkland City Council, our elected representatives. We voters have our say with every election. For those interested in more on this, I suggest you read the Kirkland Reporter column written by Rep. Larry Springer on Oct. 15. As Mr. Springer points out, the Metropolitan Park District is an advantage, not a liability.

The real issue is whether our lovely city believes it’s important to have a public community center and pool. The pools built many years ago by a prior generation left a lasting legacy here for us to enjoy. We have an opportunity to create something similar for our children and future generations. Vote yes on Prop 1.

Dave Reeves, Kirkland