Los Angeles County Supervisor Zev Yaroslavsky received special recognition for his ongoing support of the project.

"He was the first to believe that the city could build a great aquatics facility for its community and the Northeast Valley," said San Fernando Mayor Nury Martinez.

In 2002, Yaroslavsky secured $500,000 in project seed money. The monies were then used by the city ofSan Fernando in 2003 to leverage a highly competitive $2.7 million Murray-Hayden grant from the California Department of Parks and Recreation.

In 2005, construction costs skyrocketed. "Zev was committed to seeing this project succeed," said Martinez. "He and his staff worked closely with the City to secure bond financing for the remaining pool costs."

The City's redevelopment agency issued a $9.8 million bond in 2006, a portion of which funded the $14.5 million facility.

"When you embark on a project like this, there will be controversy," said Yaroslavsky on Saturday night. "The pool took a long time to finish, but in the end people will see that it was well worth it."

Added Yaroslavsky, "...my district includes Beverly Hills and some of the wealthiest parts of the Westside. I can tell you that no one has anything like this. I believe some day we are going to see one or more Olympians get their start here."

The San Fernando Regional Pool Facility opened Aug. 23. Among its offerings: a 50-meter Olympic-sized pool, a 25-yard recreation pool with splash zone and a 16,000 sq. ft. pool building.

"This pool facility is so nice, it should be renamed the San Fernando Country Club," said attendee Sen. Alex Padilla.

Yaroslavsky closed his comments with a commitment. "I'm here to tell you that the County of Los Angeles supports this project. We'll work with the city to ensure the pool's ongoing success."