Two groups using the swimming pool at the former Lifeplex building in Cornwallis Park won't be getting their feet wet anymore.
Annapolis County council said it reluctantly, but unanimously, made the difficult decision not to renew the contracts of the two groups.
"After much discussion, council’s decision was based on the lack of funding commitment shown to date from the provincial and federal government," the county said in a media release.
The contracts of the two groups expire on August 31.
Council and the YMCA are working together to secure funding support from the federal and provincial governments to move ahead with Fundy Y.
“In hopes that it would be a short-term funding decision, council had allowed these user groups, which provided their own lifeguards and insurance, to continue to utilize the facility until the end of August,” said Annapolis County Warden Peter Newton. “However, the current revenue stream will not cover the necessary costs to keep the facility operational, and without confirmation of government funding to date, our hands are financially tied.”
The warden noted this was a very difficult decision for council, as they realize the worthiness of the groups this will affect, but the finances could not be ignored. It is estimated this partial shutdown will reduce operating costs to the county by a minimum of $3,000 per month. The partial shutdown will include turning off the lights and reducing the temperature on the heat exchangers. The water will be kept in the pool as the cost of lost chemicals by draining it would be very expensive.
The release said that council also felt it is unfair to continue to allow a limited number of user groups to utilize the facility in the long-term without opening it to the public. The county does not have the staff or resources to operate the facility for the general public.
The YMCA’s philosophy and mission statement are in line with the county’s, and council believes they are the best option for running the facility. The YMCA’s enthusiasm has not waned, according to the county, and they are looking forward to bringing this project to fruition and providing these much needed services to Annapolis County.
“We are hopeful the two levels of government will recognize the importance of re-opening this much needed wellness facility and the opportunities it will create for economic development; as well as supporting the health and wellness of citizens in this area,” said warden Newton.
