The Clear Lake Parks Board voted unanimously Monday to offer free family memberships to the Clear Lake Aquatic Center to the city’s volunteer firefighters.
    Jim Finstad, a board member and volunteer firefighter, first introduced the membership proposal to the board in March.  Finstad came across the idea while researching recruitment tools for  volunteer departments, such as Clear Lake’s.  Finstad abstained from Monday’s 6-0 vote.  He previously stated he would continue to purchase a membership for his family.
    Pool Director Sue Keefe said the Board viewed the proposal as a great way to give back to the volunteers who annually contribute more than 250-hours of service to the community.   A family membership is valued at $90.
    “This is also a way to give back to the families of firefighters, who offer their support despite the many hours they spend away from the family in training and service.
    Board members noted they received several favorable comments from the public after Finstad introduced the idea March 24.  
    Finstad estimates about 10 firefighters may use the memberships, amounting to a value of $900.