The second phase of the Next Wave consultation process for a new aquatic facility in Saugeen Shores is complete.
A series of public meetings were held where residents could state what they would like to see in a facility that could one day replace the aging Centennial Pool.
Community Services Director Mike Myatt says suggestions include having an eight-lane pool for competitive swimming, but also to have smaller pools geared to children and therapeutic use.
Other suggestions include having an indoor walking and running track and gymnasium incorporated into the facility.
As for location, the preferred spot is at the existing Plex site in Port Elgin. The second favourite is vacant land on the 10th Concession.
Councillor Victoria Serda is excited about the possibility of a new facility and says the Plex would be an efficient location for staff.
Councillor Diane Huber is disappointed no sites in Southampton were suggested.
Myatt says council will decide during the upcoming budget process if the 75-thousand dollar third phase of the consultation should go ahead.
He says it would include coming up with conceptual drawings, a 10-year business plan, and how it’s operating and capital costs could be financed.
Myatt says if council approves the third phase, it could get underway as soon as late February or in March. He says drawings could be ready in time for the summer so tradespeople and seasonal visitors could have a chance to see them.
The phase two report suggests the kind of facility residents want would cost about 9.6 million dollars.
Deputy Mayor Doug Freiburger says he likes the suggestions that have come out of the consultations so far, but the costs need to be kept in mind.
He wants residents to realize the reality of the price tag involved and not just the dream of having a new aquatic facility.
