Beloved Pierce County swim club at risk as pool rental fee more than triples, coaches say

The Harbor Aquatics Club, a vital swimming program serving the Gig Harbor area, is at risk of closure due to a dramatic increase in pool rental fees from the Peninsula School District, which will jump from $60 to $210 per hour. Coaches Hillary Jensen-Bergren and Jianna Link have articulated that this new rate could consume virtually all the club's income, leaving little room to cover essential expenses like coaching salaries and equipment. Parents, such as Erika Jackman, have passionately defended the club, emphasizing its role in fostering a supportive environment for youth swimmers. The district asserts that this fee adjustment was necessary after incorrectly charging the club a nonprofit rate. As the coaches and parents advocate for a more reasonable rental fee, they fear that the increased cost will limit access to swimming for local children.

The club has become one of the few options for competitive swimming in the region, especially after the closure of the Narrows Swim Club. With the threat of membership fee increases or potential closure looming, community members are rallying for a solution that ensures the program's sustainability. The urgency of the situation highlights the important role of local aquatics programs in promoting youth engagement and safety in a water-surrounded community.