In a recent public hearing, Washington County officials discussed a proposed local amendment to the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code, specifically targeting safety regulations for pools and hot tubs. The amendment aims to clarify safety requirements by removing the word \"not\" from section 305.1, which would mandate that all pools and spas comply with additional safety measures, including the installation of barriers.

Commissioner Greg Cartrad, along with Deputy County Attorney Rosalinda Pasquale, presented the amendment, emphasizing its intent to enhance safety for children around swimming areas. The proposed change would require that even pools equipped with lockable safety covers must also have a surrounding barrier, such as a fence, if they exceed a depth of 24 inches.

The hearing opened to public comments, where several residents expressed strong opposition to the amendment. One resident passionately argued that the requirement for fencing around hot tubs and swim spas is excessive and unnecessary, citing the impracticality of enforcing such regulations on elevated structures. He criticized the proposal as government overreach, suggesting it would impose significant financial burdens on homeowners without effectively enhancing safety.

Concerns were raised about the ambiguity in the language of the code, particularly regarding the distinction between in-ground and above-ground pools and spas. Some commissioners echoed these sentiments, questioning whether the amendment should apply uniformly to all types of pools and spas or if exceptions should be made for those with adequate safety covers.

The public hearing concluded with a consensus among commissioners to revisit the language of the amendment, aiming to differentiate between pools and hot tubs in future discussions. The board plans to work on refining the proposal before bringing it back for further consideration, ensuring that community concerns are adequately addressed.