OCEANSIDE, Calif. (KGTV) -- A proposal to close the Brooks Street public pool in Oceanside is drawing criticism from residents and community leaders who say the move would unfairly impact communities of color.
Jodi Diamond, CEO of the Oceanside Boys and Girls Clubs, says the Brooks Street pool is a major resource for families they serve, who otherwise wouldn't have access to a swimming facility.
"What they are proposing, to close the Brooks Street pool is nothing short of institutional racism, whether intentional or unintentional the effect is still the same," said Diamond.
The city council has requested a report from staff about how much money would be saved by closing Brooks Street and could consider putting that money towards operating the new El Corazon Aquatics Center, which is miles away from Brooks Street in a more affluent neighborhood.
At a Parks and Rec Commission meeting earlier this week, city staff reportedly said there was money in the budget to operate both. Giving hope to the thousands who have already signed a Change.org petition and the Boys and Girls Clubs.
"I'm hopeful they're gonna hear the voices, this is a vital resource to these children especially children of color," Diamond said.
The Oceanside City Council is scheduled to discuss the Brooks Street Pool issue at it's next meeting on February 24.
