Babauta looks into status of Marpi pool

Gov. Juan N. Babauta has asked the Marianas Public Lands Authority to brief him on the nature of MPLA’s lease agreement with Kan Pacific Ltd., which operates the public swimming pool in Marpi.

The request came after the Saipan Swim Club recently wrote the governor about the pool’s poor condition. The club also sought government assistance in repairing the facility.

In a Nov. 3 letter to MPLA chair Ana Demapan-Castro, Babauta said he agreed with the swim club that the pool is an important asset for both the physical fitness of the population and the CNMI’s economic development. The governor said the recent use of the pool by the Korean synchronized swimming duet in preparation for the Athens Olympics underscores this fact.

Babauta said, however, that he would like to know more about the conditions for Kan Pacific’s use of public lands and water within the Marianas Resort and Spa complex.

“It is my understanding that the pool and its upkeep were original conditions of the public land lease between Kan Pacific and the [MPLA]. I would like you to brief me on the nature of this agreement and whether it is being adhered to in all respects,” Babauta said.

According to the SSC, Kan Pacific is only obligated to provide minimal maintenance for the pool, as a condition of its lease agreement with MPLA.

The aging facility has deteriorated to the point of being unsafe for swimmers and now requires major rehabilitation that could cost up to $800,000.

Kan Pacific has indicated that it is unable to shoulder the renovation costs, the SSC said.

“While Kan Pacific continues to provide minimal maintenance and staff the pool with a certified life guard, they need assistance to renovate the pool. We respectfully request your assistance in finding the necessary funds to renovate the Marpi pool,” the club told Babauta.

The group said renovating the pool would cost only about half the $1.5 million needed to construct a new 50-meter pool.

Further, the government could tap the Community Development Block Grant provided by the U.S. Department of Housing Urban Development, the club said. It noted that application for the grant does not begin until mid-March 2005.

“The renovation of the pool cannot wait that long. Without your help in identifying an immediate funding source, the survival of the sport of swimming on Saipan is in jeopardy,” the SSC said.