SANTA PAULA : YMCA’s Pool a Summertime Haven for Kids

Three-year-old David Ayala excitedly splashed water at the edge of the Santa Paula High School swimming pool Monday as his mother taught him how to paddle.

“Straighten your legs and do it slowly,” said Lydia Ayala, supporting David as he floated in the water.

The facility, which is the city’s only public swimming pool, was rescued from being filled with sand in early May when the Channel Islands YMCA agreed to lease it from the school district for two years. It will be operated at least during summers.

Since the YMCA began operating the pool July 1, an average of 220 youngsters have used it every week day, said Susan Hart-Ramos, the pool supervisor.

For parents such as Ayala, the pool is a cherished place.

“I’m really happy that the community found a way to keep the pool open,” said Ayala, who takes her three children swimming three times a week. “This is the only safe place in town where the children can take a break from the heat.”

The pool is open Monday through Friday, offering swimming and water exercise classes. Open swimming is scheduled from 1 to 3:30 p.m., Hart-Ramos said.

Open swimming is free for YMCA members and $1.25 a day for non-members.

The YMCA leased the pool from Santa Paula Union High School District after trustees threatened to close it because the district could not afford the $32,000 yearly maintenance costs.

Executive Director J.C. Holt said the agency’s main source of pool revenue is donations, and it has only raised half of what it needs to keep the pool open year-round. A Santa Paula resident, who requests anonymity, has promised to match every dollar donated for the pool, Hold said.

Although she cannot donate money, Nicole Ohaco, a 15-year-old member of the high school swimming team, donates her time.

Every day from 11 to 4, Nicole helps operate the pool as a clerk and lifeguard.

“I do get a chance to swim, but I’m here because I really want to help,” Nicole said. “The Y really helped us out, and this is my way to say ‘thanks.’ ”