An editorial in the Contra Costa Times argues that the City Manager should do a better job informing the City Council (however, I contend that Duck Pond Park — which is a community park, not a “park for ducks;” it is just a name — is a great investment, regardless of its stature on the national stage)…

Weight room

During the March 10 City Council meeting, I asked Mayor Joe Eddy McDonald why he stated at the Jan. 27 meeting he or his staff would get back to me regarding the Hercules Community/Swim Center weight room closure.

McDonald denied saying that. I visited the Hercules Web site and, sure enough, during the Jan. 27 meeting, McDonald did say those words.

At the March 10 meeting, I mentioned an advertisement photo of two council members working out at the new, privately-owned Hercules Fitness. I believe those council members had no idea City Manager Nelson Oliva wanted to close the city’s weight room.

It disturbs me that Oliva would decide to close the weight room, post a notice on the door in early January and memo the council of his decision on Feb. 14.

As to the weight room, the city stated it would cost $15,000-$25,000 to replace the equipment, which would last 10 years. Compare that with $2.5 million for the nationally-known Duck Pond Park.

Will the city be able to restrain itself from spending excessively on a duck park during tough times? And will Oliva communicate with council members in a more timely manner to protect them from embarrassment?

Dan Romero
Hercules