Editor:
So here we are again, decades later, still trying to save Gibsons pool. Yes, the hot tub finally died. The Sunshine Coast Regional District has asked: “Why does Gibsons pool need a new hot tub?”
We’ve already lost the regular memberships of those who used the hot tub for therapeutic purposes, and those members will not be renewing until we get the new hot tub. Look out for associated rising health care costs in our already overtaxed system when we can’t work out in the pool.
Gibsons pool “improvements” over the summer closure included getting Sechelt pool’s cast-offs like their old lockers (although Gibsons pool users generally do not lock their belongings). We got their old water fountain, etc. Could we get their old hot tub and they can fight for a new one? Oh, wait … that white elephant is in the middle of an expensive lawsuit, while the “powers that be” talk about letting the Gibsons pool die as it is not commercially viable.
Is a community pool supposed to be a money-maker? And do we have to wait until February for a decision while members fall away?
Do the right thing. Bypass the bureaucracy and give Gibsons pool their hot tub and whatever improvements they need. Apparently there is 25 per cent Coast population growth at the kindergarten level. Don’t these kids need swimming lessons? And while we’re on the subject, does anyone know what happened to Muriel Haynes’ legacy to Gibsons pool, which must be accruing interest somewhere? It was designated for a “community use room.” Perhaps that could be incorporated into the new hot tub design.
Every community needs a pool. Don’t let our pool die.
L. Herder (and group of regular pool users), Gibsons
