My wife and I live in Coupeville and cannot vote on the operation and maintenance levy for the North Whidbey Park and Recreation District. Could we vote, we would vote a resounding “yes.”

The only facility we can comment on is the John Vanderzicht Memorial Pool, which we have used in various ways. We moved here four years ago and have been swimming with the North Whidbey Aquatic Club masters team twice a week for about three years. Our first experience with the pool was the kayak class given by Skagit Valley Community College. When our grandchildren visit, we always bring them to the pool for a swim.

In our numerous visits to the pool we have seen what a tremendous asset it is to the citizens of Oak Harbor and surrounding communities. First of all, it serves people ranging from toddlers to the very elderly. The programs include, or support, instruction, recreation, water aerobics, competitive swimming, kayaking, scuba diving, lifeguard training and lap swimming. We have also observed naval personnel using the pool for training. In short, we have been amazed to see the range of people using the pool, and the range of personal benefits they derive from it.

We have gotten to know the staff quite well over the years and thoroughly enjoy their competence and friendliness. The pool is showing its age, but is well-maintained in our opinion.

In conclusion, a public swimming pool is a great resource for any community. Many communities that don’t have pools will probably not get one soon because of the economy and the tremendous expense to build a new pool. Oak Harbor has Vanderzicht pool which supplies many benefits to all ages. Citizens of Oak Harbor should count their blessings and vote for the levy, which will allow the pool, and other park district programs, to continue.

Duncan and Glena Kelso
Coupeville