Visalia City Council Member Greg Collins plans to make a PowerPoint presentation about the proposed aquatics facility at the joint meeting of the Visalia City Council and the Visalia Unified School District School Board in late winter.

"The city council is curious as to whether the school district is one of the entities that will provide financial support," Collins said. "If there was some financial support, that would swing a couple of votes (on the Visalia City Council). Hopefully, the school board members will indicate that it would benefit the district."

He noted that city schools often need additional pool facilities for their activities.

Collins previously announced that California Water Service was interested in securing the naming rights of the complex and was willing to donate $500,000 over 10 years, which would be used to reduce annual maintenance costs.

Collins plans to submit a grant application to the Visalia Rotary Community Foundation for 2022, but other current options are limited.

"It's difficult to solicit donations until I have a thumbs up (from the city council)," Collins said.

One of the possible locations in Visalia for the aquatic complex is Recreation Park, according to Collins.

"Probably a better location, with ample parking, is on the southwest corner of Burke and School," he said. "It's fairly large and the city owns the property."

The aquatics facility proposal includes a large pool with 25 swimming lanes, as well as a pool with shallow water that could accommodate small children.

The empty lot at Burke and School

"Seniors could take advantage of the pool to stay in shape," said Collins.

"Aquatic zumba is very popular with seniors, and I know how popular water aerobics are," said Jeremy Rogers Visalia community services director.

"The PowerPoint is done," said Collins. "I just need to get the February or March date for the meeting."

Those interested in making a donation, buying naming rights to a lane, or just curious about what programs would be planned if the facility were constructed, are encouraged to call Greg Collins at (559) 734-8737.