Ask the Mayor: How Can We Keep the Public Pools Warm?

Mayor Alan Arakawa answers some of the questions submitted to his staff.

Submit your own questions about County of Maui programs, services, operations or policies to Mayor Alan Arakawa at [email protected], 270-7855 or mail them to 200 S. High Street, 9th Floor, Wailuku, HI 96793.

Questions submitted will be considered for inclusion in the “Ask the Mayor” column.

The Kīhei Aquatic Center. Photo courtesy Maui County

Aloha Mr. Mayor,

Q: Recently, with all the cold nights, the Kīhei Aquatic Center’s pools have been quite cool in the mornings. With the chilly winds the pool heaters have a difficult time warming the pool. Why not invest in thermal pool covers during the time the pools are closed?

This would be a good way to keep the pools warmer and save on energy to heat the pools. I understand that the Pukalani pool uses such a pool cover to keep its pool warmer in the cool upcountry climate.

A: Good thought – our Aquatics Division is currently in the process of exploring the use of pool covers for all pools. There are certain things that need to be taken into consideration, such as the cost and how best to secure the covers during high winds. We also need to determine the most efficient procedures and mechanism to cover and uncover the pool.