Res. No. 898 Title Resolution calling upon the City of New York to create and increase initiatives to promote swimming through recreation and education. Body By Council Members Addabbo, Jr., Baez, Barron, Davis, Felder, Fidler, Foster, Gennaro, Gerson, Katz, Liu, Lopez, McMahon, Nelson, Recchia, Sanders, Serrano, Yassky, Jackson and Brewer Whereas, The New York City Department of Education has jurisdiction over approximately 38 swimming pools in schools; and Whereas, The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation has jurisdiction over 53 outdoor swimming pools, 10 indoor swimming pools, and 14 miles of beaches; and Whereas, Each year, the Department of Parks and Recreation attempts to hire approximately 1,200 lifeguards to make the pools and beaches safe, and in the year 2002, only 984 lifeguards positions were filled, only 898 lifeguard positions were filled in the year 2001, and only 935 lifeguard positions were filled in the year 2000; and Whereas, Only 29 schools have active swimming curriculums, and 38 high schools have girls varsity swimming teams and 39 high schools have boys varsity swimming teams; and Whereas, An enhanced swimming curriculum and swimming programs in the City's schools, along with increased promotion of lifeguard opportunities, can increase the number of skilled swimmers and New York City lifeguards; now, therefore be it Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the City of New York to create and increase initiatives to promote swimming through recreation and education. THC - LS# 2115 5/15/2003 2:06 PM