VIP California politicians spark fury after shutting down swanky water park, families turned away

A new aquatic center in Southern California celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by local politicians, but residents say they and their children have been shut out.One local claimed her children were turned away from the facility in Santa Ana after being told it was “only for VIPs,” according to the Voice of OC.The opening ceremony for the new $29.3 million Memorial Park Aquatic Center took place on Saturday, Oct.17 in the Orange County city.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Diana Vargas, a longtime resident of Santa Ana’s Memorial Park neighborhood, told The Voice of OC that her children were excited to swim in the new pool and try out its water slide.

But when they arrived for the unveiling, they were turned away and told to return later.“It’s only for VIPs, and it’s only for certain Washington Elementary kids.You will be able to go in at 1:30 p.m.,” Vargas recalled being told, according to the local news outlet.“My youngest son goes, ‘Mom, it’s okay, Mom.

We could go to the other pool,’” Vargas continued.“I’ve been taking them to other cities and other pools, and the kids are like, ‘It’s okay, Mom.

We could go to the other pools–they won’t say anything.’”While Vargas’ children didn’t get to enjoy the pool that day, elected officials took advantage of the opportunity to pose for photos, some of which were later distributed in press releases.City Council candidate Giovanni Chavez also posted a video on Instagram featuring Congressman Lou Correa, promoting the new aquatic center as an example of expanded city services.The ribbon-cutting ceremony and accompanying photo opportunities come just weeks before the November general election.Despite the October 17 ribbon-cutting ceremony, San...