Martin Swims pool referendum

Longtime resident enthusiastically backed the Martin Swims referendum, noting drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for young Florida children and every child should learn to swim.

Martin Swims president and widow of legendary coach Dick Wells traced the pool's history and asked the boards to work together to re-establish it and its programs.

Retired trial attorney explained the referendum structure: a flat ~$10 property levy with no increases, funding the high school pool and a foundation fund for future pools.

Asked both boards to add an agenda item to approve putting the referendum on the November 2026 ballot, and suggested the school board open the pool in July as goodwill.