Patti’s Swim School Stays Open

A beloved decades-old family-run business will continue to operate but must make some critical changes to get a permit, according to the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC). 

At their first meeting of 2024, the MAC determined that Patti’s Swim School at 4621 James Avenue could continue providing swimming lessons to youth in the community but did need to work on compliance with signage, safety regulations, and the Americans with Disabilities Act, among other factors. 

The County Department of Environmental Health sent owner Patricia O’Brien multiple notices of violation, saying the facility lacked appropriate finishes in a lavatory, drinking water, a hook and life ring in the pool, capacity signage, and more. 

Additionally, neighbors complained of customers taking up street parking at the school, which is in a residential area. 

The MAC acknowledged the problems but said that the school provides a valuable service in Castro Valley and that O’Brien is working towards fixing them, so they recommended that the item be continued for a vote at a future meeting and that classes should continue in the meantime. 

Several speakers and letters to the MAC also expressed support for the school. 

The MAC told O’Brien they understood her frustration as some of the compliance rules are complicated but said they must be followed, nonetheless. The MAC also chastised the Department of Environmental Health for not being present at Monday night’s meeting. 

“I appreciate what they do at this school,” said MAC member Chuck Moore. “The only thing is there are some pretty rigid guidelines about what you need to do for the permit. Where guidelines are given, guidelines must be followed. It’s in the process of being complete, but it’s not complete.” 

Moore also cautioned O’Brien about the complexities of operating a business in a residential area. 

“When you operate a business in a residential area, it’s almost like you are walking on eggshells,” said Moore.

“We are super aware of that,” said O’Brien. “We have great respect for that.”

The permit will come back before the MAC at a future meeting, and County planning staff said they could see the process approaching “the finish line.” 

The MAC also approved an application to replace an existing home at 19241 Carlton Avenue with a larger home on that same site. There had been some previous concern about the new larger structure possibly blocking the views of neighboring homes, but County planning officials ultimately recommended approval, with the MAC unanimously approving. 

In other MAC news, the Council unanimously approved a facelift for the Jack in the Box at 3035 Castro Valley Boulevard. The MAC made sure the colors weren’t too loud—especially a red hue being used—and the fast-food spot will soon get a minor makeover.