The Belmont Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on October 1, 2025, highlighted significant developments in the youth and teen division, particularly regarding the management of summer aquatics programs. Recreation Supervisor Michael Moran provided an enthusiastic update, marking his eighth presentation on summer activities in Belmont.

One of the most notable changes this year was the youth and teen division's takeover of the aquatics program at Claremont High School. The summer aquatics season, which ran for six weeks, offered various activities including lap swimming, recreational swimming, and swim lessons for children aged 4 to 16. This year, the program saw an increase in participation, with 550 youth swimmers, up from 531 the previous year, despite facing challenges from a cooler summer.

Moran reported that the division hired 16 part-time staff members, with a significant number being Belmont residents. Additionally, the program expanded its volunteer swimmer aid initiative, which saw participation jump from 4 to 13 volunteers this summer. This program, aimed at youth aged 13 to 17, provides valuable learning experiences for participants.

Feedback from program attendees played a crucial role in shaping future offerings. The division plans to introduce adaptive swim lessons and private swim lessons in 2026, responding to community requests. Furthermore, the swim lesson program underwent a complete overhaul based on participant surveys, ensuring that all levels and report cards are updated for clarity.

The meeting also addressed the need for better identification of volunteer swimmer aids, leading to the purchase of distinctive rash guards to help the public differentiate between volunteers and instructors. This initiative aims to enhance the overall experience for participants and their families.

Overall, the updates from the Parks and Recreation Commission reflect a commitment to improving community engagement and providing quality recreational opportunities for Belmont's youth. As the division looks ahead to 2026, it remains focused on adapting programs to meet the needs of residents and fostering a supportive environment for young swimmers.