The conversation about a community pool complex in Parry Sound is continuing.
A committee called the Ad Hoc Citizens’ Advisory to the Wellness & Pool Recreation Complex made a presentation to
representatives from all seven municipalities and two First Nations to show why a pool is important to the committee and what is needed to achieve the goal.
YMCA CEO Rob Armstrong and VP of Philanthropy, Brand & Community Development Brian Shelley made the presentation.
The YMCA’s experience in operating facilities for municipalities laid out the business case for a complex in the Parry Sound area.
“We believe everyone in the Parry Sound area deserves a pool complex, and that the project is possible with community support,” says Shelley.
The Citizens’ Advisory Committee, representatives from seven area municipalities and two First Nations were among the 25 people in attendance.
Top of the list for having a pool was the benefits to children. Living in a water-based community makes the ability to swim a potentially life-saving skill.
The YMCA pointed to its membership fees as another benefit, with a one price fits all rather than individual program fees. Typical membership costs range from $30 to $50 per month with subsidies available to make programming accessible to all.
The pair also showcased pools the YMCA runs in Gravenhurst, Innisfil, and Wasaga, providing some idea of what would be a suitable facility for Parry Sound.