Design Review Committee is working on landscaping

Cathy and I had a fun enjoyable experience last week. The grandsons were recently able to take swimming lessons in the Weiser Pool from Weiser’s own Aimee Wootton. This last Wednesday, Cathy and I were able to join the boys and their mother in the Weiser Pool. The boys wanted to show us what they had learned. Kudos to Aimee! 

 After just one week, the boys were able to handle themselves in the water with ease. They are now able to handle themselves without floatation devices or assistance in water over their heads. In fact, they seemed to be as comfortable underwater as above.

 The boys were showing us all kinds of stunts and acrobatics they could now perform. I tried to imitate them a few times and failed miserably. I just don’t seem to bend like I used to. 

 If you have not visited the pool, you might want to consider doing so. The Weiser swimming pool is a very fine facility that is kept in excellent order. The lifeguards are great, the water is a comfortable 82 degrees, and the price is very reasonable. So, be sure to check out the pool when you have the chance. I doubt you will be disappointed.

 Some of you may wonder why the Weiser Pool does not offer group swimming lessons, since children learning how to swim and knowing good water safety is so important. The reason for the lack of public lessons is due to a lack of trainers. You see, there are only about three trainers in the State of Idaho who are certified to teach group swimming trainers. It is my understanding that these trainers are associated with the state universities. The trainers teach during school hours and the classes tend to be filled with college students. Since the classes are held in the daytime it is difficult for our lifeguards, who tend to be high school students, or even working adults who want to be trained, to attend. 

 This is not only a problem for Weiser, but for most community pools. I am not sure what the solution is, other than for the Red Cross to step up efforts to train more trainers and/or to offer sessions in the evenings and weekends. It is very important for the safety of our children. I will keep you informed if there are any changes in the situation. 

 In other City news this week, I want to thank the Design Review Committee for the work they have done so far. In just a few short months, the committee, which consists of Tony Edmondson, chairman, representing the Historical Society, Mark Christensen representing the Planning and Zoning Commission, Diane Christensen representing the Garden Club, Mike Szura as an interested citizen, and Sterling Blackwell representing the City Council have accomplished a great deal. 

 Meeting weekly, they have reviewed and made recommendations for the incoming Maverik Store on landscaping, lighting, signage, and appearance. When the proposed RV park on Highway 95 submits their plans, the committee will also make suggestions to the owners to give it a look Weiser can be proud of. 

 In addition, they have reviewed landscaping ordinances from other towns in Idaho that have taken the effort to set standards for the appearance of their businesses. The proposed ordinance is being reviewed by the City’s attorney. After that, it will go before the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council for a full vetting. 

 Please keep in mind the proposed landscaping ordinance would pertain only to new businesses coming into town and to businesses that want to revamp their landscaping. For other existing businesses, their landscaping would be grandfathered in.

 The Design Review Committee will also be presenting ordinance proposals for lighting, signage, and appearance in the future. 

 If you see any of these individuals around, you might want to say thanks for the work they are doing. Their efforts are intended to make Weiser an even better place to live, work, and play all while keeping that unique Weiser feel.

 Well, that’s it for this week. I hope you are doing well in this heat. If not, the pool is such a nice place to be!