HomeMy WebLinkAbout10-02-26 Public Comment - N. Butler - A Vote of Support for a Pool _ Aquatics CenterFrom:Noelle Butler
To:Bozeman Public Comment
Subject:[EXTERNAL]A Vote of Support for a Pool / Aquatics Center
Date:Friday, October 2, 2026 9:55:47 AM
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Dear City Commissioners,
Thank you for the work you are doing to make Bozeman a better place. I would like
to extend a vote of support for the prioritization of a pool / aquatics center.
I understand you have asked the public to share their thoughts on the following:
What type of aquatics facility does Bozeman need?
I would like Bozeman to offer
a competition swimming pool with starting blocks to support the needs of local and
regional athletes. Athletes across the state currently travel long distances to
compete under sanctioned competition requirements.
A warm water therapy pool to support water fitness classes and swim lessons
A facility for children with a lazy river and splash pool. After learning about the cost
of adding a slide, I do not think that feature should be prioritized.
Who in your family or community would use it?
Everyone. My family understands the mental and physical health benefits of aquatic
exercise through every stage of life.
How do you currently use—or are limited by the lack of—local aquatic
facilities?
I currently utilize the Bozeman city pools for Master swimming, lap swimming and
water fitness classes. I am limited by the Master Swim, lap swim, and class times. I
would especially like at least one lane open for lap swimming at all times. I also
frequently opt out of water fitness classes at the Swim Center because the water is
too cold. I would like to have the opportunity to swim laps at a lap-appropriate
temperature and do water fitness at a warmer temperature. I think having two
separate pools for water fitness classes/swim lessons, and lap swimming would
solve a lot of our problems.
Why do you believe the need is timely?
We have insufficient facilities to accommodate the demand for swim lessons, and
our state has one of the highest rates of drowning deaths in our nation.
Aquatic fitness is essential exercise for the aging population.
We have a mental health crisis, and water fitness is proven to significantly improve
mental health. This is especially true during periods of dreary winter weather.
We have a loneliness and an obesity epidemic. Aquatics centers provide a
community gathering space and encourage physical fitness.
To entice the next generation to raise their families in Bozeman, we need to offer
facilities that support adults' and children’s athletic aspirations and overall health.
Our current aquatics facilities fall far short of those in comparable communities
outside Montana and also within.
Thank you for your consideration and the time you dedicate to the Commission.
Be well,
Noelle Butler
Bozeman Masters Swim Club