Regular hours at the Western Financial Place aquatic centre will stay in place following the results of a pilot project earlier this year.
The pilot project ran from March 31 to June 7, with hours being reduced to see what savings were available.
A public survey was initiated at the same time to collect the public’s feeling on the reduction.
The city saved roughly $14,000 in operating costs, but the feedback received expressed displeasure with the changes.
“We as a council are listening and we take this public feedback seriously. We asked staff to explore some operational adjustments through this recent pilot project,” said Mayor Wayne Price.
“We did see some financial savings, but it is clear there was a negative impact to our users because of the reduced accessibility to the pool. Our residents and users told us the pool is an important space and that the reduced hours were a problem. We are listening, which is why Council asked staff to keep the pool hours unchanged going forward.”
While the previous hours will be in effect, staff will begin using dynamic zone closures throughout the day.
City staff said parts of the pool may be closed at times depending on public demand, scheduled programs and staff availability.
The pool’s daily schedule will be adjusted to reduce crowding during peak times and keep lane swimming more consistent.
Bookings with School District 5 will also be coordinated more strategically.
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