Barrington Town Council approves Bayside YMCA pool agreement enhancing access for residents

The Barrington Town Council meeting on March 3, 2025, focused on the proposed agreement between the town and the Bayside YMCA regarding access to the outdoor pool. Town Manager Herbie and council members discussed the details of the agreement, which aims to provide non-member Barrington residents with access to the pool in exchange for funding repairs.

In 2024, the council approved $115,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds for the pool's repairs. The agreement, signed on December 26, 2024, includes a commitment from the YMCA to use a portion of these funds to complete the repairs by December 31, 2026. The agreement also outlines the terms for resident access, including discounted day pass rates and a policy for guest passes.

Town Manager Herbie explained that the agreement has a minimum term of five years, with a three-year review of financial terms to ensure sustainability. The YMCA will provide free access to Barrington residents on heat advisory days and during town beach closures, although access may be restricted during scheduled programming.

Council members expressed support for the agreement, highlighting its potential benefits for the community. Questions arose regarding the logistics of promoting the pool access program and the process for residents to obtain guest passes. The YMCA's Executive Director, Ryan Queen, clarified that residents would need to fill out a guest membership form once per season, which would streamline future visits.

The council also discussed the financial implications of the agreement, noting that the current guest pass policy allows for only one-time use per year, while the new agreement would enable multiple uses throughout the summer. The YMCA aims to raise additional funds to support the pool's renovation, with a matching campaign currently underway.

In conclusion, the agreement between the town and the Bayside YMCA represents a significant step towards enhancing community access to recreational facilities. The council plans to continue discussions and finalize the agreement to ensure that residents can benefit from the outdoor pool in the upcoming summer season.