Local family cheers over new public pool project

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The Ortega family cheered with joy when they learned that Westmorland would soon get a new public pool, less than a block away from their home.

Westmorland long-time resident Francisca Ortega exclaimed, “Awesome! I am so excited! Ecstatic to get myself, my kids in that pool right there!”

They had dreamed of a new public pool ever since the old one closed.

“I went there myself as a kid. To remember the last time – it’s been a long time – years!” Ortega said.

Ed Snivley, former Imperial Irrigation District Director candidate and a voice behind the project, said the City of Westmorland teamed up with IID and County of Imperial to raise the required $228,000 for the project.

“The pool will also serve as a gathering place for families. And I think that’s really one of the important aspects of this whole thing; it brings families back to the park. The pool will not be just repaired; a brand new pool will be installed, from what I’m being told,” Snively said.

The Ortega family has big plans for the new facility.
“Going there every day. Making my sandwiches. Getting ready with our sodas – our juices!” Ortega said.

Ortega’s 15-year-old daughter, Soledad Joslin Ortega said, “This is almost in my front yard.”

They remember the old pool.

Ortega’s sister, Cassandra Ortega said, “I remember growing up as a kid myself making memories and I can’t – and I’m excited to have that with my kids. I really am.”

The new pool will be located where the old pool currently is behind city hall. Snively said work should start very soon.