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Lindbergh & Hazen Pools Slated
for Closure Again

As reported in our June 2010 issue, , the Lindbergh Pool has been an important part the community for many years. Located next to Lindbergh High School, it is funded by the Renton School District (RSD). It is used by several swim teams, including Lindbergh and Kentridge high schools, as well as residents of Renton, Fairwood, Kent, and unincorporated King County, and therefore , a valuable asset to our community.

Due to latest round of state and Renton School District budgetary cuts, the Lindberg Pool is yet again on the chopping block for the 2011-2012 school year. RSD has also, for the first time, targeted the Hazen High School pool for closure as well. In response, area residents and businesses have begun a grass-roots effort to again save the pools.

Lifetime area resident Kim Younts states "Having been born, raised and lived in this community for 42 years, I am well aware of the value and importance that both of these pools are to the community. It would be a shame if they were both shut down. I’m confident that within a 10 mile radius of each pool there are at least 6,000 - 10,000 children, parents and grandparents who have benefited from these public pools over the course of time."

UPS Store owner Ti Vuong states "These two pools are the only public indoor pools between Bellevue and Kent. The community uses the pools for lap swimming, swim and water safety classes, senior fitness, and scuba diving training. The pools are great recreation facilities for kids and families living in Renton, Fairwood, Kent, Issaquah, Newcastle, Bellevue and unincorporated King County. With RSD and city of Renton budget cuts, the community will have a bigger challenge than last but we should be able to pull in and save the pool."

A community task force has formed and is working on raising the short-term goal of $60,000. The group has set-up a page on Facebook. Click on the following links: Facebook page and a downloadable version of their brochure.

But more importantly, work needs to be done to make the pools sustainable for future years to come. Fundraising efforts are underway, and meetings are held every other Wednesday. Other Fairwood area events include:

  • There will be a fundraiser at Lindbergh on March 26th for a swim-a-thon.

  • Donations made at the UPS Stores in Fairwood and Benson Plaza will be matched up to $1000 by UPS Store owner Ti Vuong. Last year these UPS Stores raised $2800 - $800 matching and $2000 from the community.

  • The Wine Alley owners Allison and Scott Heflin will donate 10% of their proceeds for a period soon to be announced. See their web site at http://thewinealley.com. Be sure to mention the Lindbergh Pools when you buy!

What can you do to help?

  • Make a tax-deductible donation by check or credit card. A brochure with donation form can be obtained from the Fairwood or Benson Hill UPS Stores. Other Fairwood area businesses will also have them - more details in the April issue.

  • Many companies will match funds for community projects and non-profit donations. Ask your employer about matching your donation.

  • Ask others to get involved - if you are not in a position to donate directly, ask a local business, friend or family member to help Save Renton Pools with a donation of any amount.

Get Involved - Attend the "Save Renton Pools" meetings every other Wednesday. Meeting dates, times and location can be found on our Facebook page. Join us in a fundraising activity. Tell the Renton School District and the Renton City Council that the pool is important to you.
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Last modified: 02/01/12