Children flock to city pool

When the summer heats up, kids flock to water.

The opening of the city pool in Colusa is a sure sign that summer in Colusa County has arrived.

“We average about 100 kids a day,” said lifeguard Chelsea Kraft. “We get more when it’s hot. We really pick up in July.”

The pool is open Monday through Saturday. Open swim is from 1 to 4 p.m. Family swim is from 4 to 6 p.m.

New this year is “Teen Night” which is held every Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. The program is open to all teens –13 and up – and will continue through July 31.

“We have basketball hoops up and play other games,” Kraft said. “It’s pretty fun.”

The city also offers water aerobics and senior swim days, based on participation.

With the cost to run the pool on the rise, city officials last Tuesday approved an increase in pool fees. It was the first increase in fees in more than 30 years, said Patti Hickel, public works director.

The new admission fee of $1 per person goes into effect July 16. The council also approved a flat fee of $75 per family for the season and $500 annual swim team fee.

Hickel said the city has experienced an increase  in the cost of energy, chemicals, repairs and labor, and the new fees will help pay for the continued operation of the pool.

Contact Susan Meeker at 458-2121 or smeeker@tcnpress.com.