By paNOW

Survey shows high demand for indoor pool

Jun 16, 2017 | 1:00 PM

There’s no question, Prince Albert residents want a new or improved place to go for an indoor swim.

That’s according to a public online engagement survey conducted by the city from January to May. More than 440 participated in the study, which will be discussed next week at a community services advisory committee meeting.

The data are meant to help shape the city’s community services master plan and provide a better picture of what the city needs to focus on to improve community services.

According to the survey, 66 per cent felt there was a need for a new or upgraded indoor aquatic facility. Outdoor water spray parks and playgrounds were the only other items to crack more than 30 per cent.

Among communities groups, which includes clubs, facility users and minor sport associations, an indoor aquatic facility took 53 per cent while an indoor arena sport facility received 38 per cent and outdoor fitness equipment 31 per cent.

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Roughly 60 respondents so far have provided feedback for the city. The community group survey is still open at this time.

Ward 5 Coun. Dennis Ogrodnick, the chairman of the community services advisory committee, said he’s in favour of a new indoor water facility with modern amenities like a wave pool but the big question for him is how to pay for it.

“I would, right now, not be in favour of raising taxes to provide that service,” he said. “We need to find a way to be able to address these needs that people are concerned about without raising taxes.”

Although more than 60 per cent of participants in the survey wanted to keep taxes and user fees where they are, residents were more willing to see an increase in taxes than user fees.

Ogrodnick said that took him by surprise.

“What I read into that is [residents don’t mind a tax increase] if the money is going towards what they deem as being as something that is going to provide a service and make the city better,” he said. “All people said was they want is to see their tax dollars spent wisely. That’s what they said and I agree.”

The vast majority of residents turn to the E.A. Rawlinson Centre with use at 83 per cent. The rotary trail is also highly used at 77 per cent, the John Cuelenaere Public Library at 78 per cent and the Alfred Jenkins Field House at 75 per cent.

The city’s two options for a swim – the Kinsmen Water Park and Frank J. Dunn Pool – received fair amount of support at 62 per cent and 55 per cent, respectfully.

While arenas are still the most expensive facility the city operates at $2.2 million, aquatics remains pricy as well, costing the city more than a million. However, arenas are able to generate more than $1.3 million in revenue to offset the cost while aquatics only brings in more than $350,000.

In total, the city spends $7.3 million on cultural and sporting facilities while generating $3.7 million in revenue.

Ogrodnick said he believes most residents consider aquatics a city service rather than a facility that’s meant to operate at cost.

Jeff.labine@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @labinereporter