(Atlantic, Iowa) – A newly formed Aquatics Committee in Atlantic held their second meeting, today (Tuesday, Feb. 10). The  Committee is comprised to a YMCA Board member, the YMCA executive director, YMCA aquatics designee, Atlantic Park and Recreation Department Coordinator, a representative from Park and Recreation Advisory, a city council representative, and two other community leaders with a passion for aquatics.

Members of committee include: Dan Haynes, Ali Pieken, Jodie Hogue, Chelsie Rush, Jeff Christensen, Emily Kennedy, Chelsie Huddleson and Alliison Knox-Westmeyer.

Picture order- Left to right, going around the table clockwise
Chelsie Rush, Chelsie Huddleson, Allison Knox-Westmeyer, Jodie Hogue, Jeff Christensen, Ali Pieken, Emily Kennedy and Dan Haynes. (photo courtesy Ali Pieken).

The General purpose of the Committee is to provide a structure for a formal vision and direction in matters pertaining to aquatics for the community of Atlantic, including:

• A review Atlantic aquatic facilities
• Providing a detailed list of upgrades, repairs, maintenance items to be reviewed by the YMCA and Parks and Recreation Advisory commission.
• Research and present potential options and upgrades on aquatics issues.
• Provide updates to the YMCA board and Parks and Recreation Commission as needed.

The Atlantic Aquatics committee held their first meeting on January 15th. The committee completed an on site pool walk through February 6th to evaluate needed improvements for the 2025 season. Aquatics Committee spokesperson Ali Pieken said “Some of the many things discussed at (Tuesday’s) meeting included: signage for Splash Pad restrooms; a new door for concession stand; process through the state for adding additional features to the pool; membership sales; pool hours of operation, marketing and more.”

Pieken said “The committee is dedicated to provide a structure for a formal vision, direction and progression in matters pertaining to aquatics for the community of Atlantic.”