Should the City Reopen Magnolia Pool?

Should the city reopen Magnolia Pool this summer?

The pool is one of three run by Rohnert Park, but was closed last year because of budget cuts.

Now some have suggested reopening the “M Pool”, to give residents of the neighborhood a place to seek relief from the summer heat.

But with Rohnert Park facing nearly a $1 million budget deficit by the start of summer, is it something the city can even afford?

Opinions among city council are mixed.

Jake Mackenzie and Mayor Pam Stafford say the city can’t afford the $22,000 it would cost to operate Magnolia for the season. Plus, the attendance at Magnolia has historically been lower than at other pools and “not something that inspires confidence,” according to Mackenzie.

But Councilmembers Amy Ahanotu and Joe Callinan said $22,000 is a small price to pay to provide a service for local families.

“We should have our amenities up and running; that’s what economic development means,” said Callinan at Tuesday’s council meeting. “It’s a great investment for us, considering the citizens are giving us $2.6 million a year in Measure E money.”

With opinions evenly split and Councilwoman Gina Belforte absent, the council will vote on the issue in April.

What do you think? Should the city spend $22,000 to reopen the Magnolia pool?