Residents in East end Moncton are still awaiting word of when their pool will be rebuilt.
Councillor Shawn Crossman says the last recommendation from Moncton City council was to move the project forward, and have it completed by the end of the year…But that site, has been untouched since its closure in 2013…
Crossman says, “It was brought to my attention by a few citizens from the area that apparently the City of Moncton is saying there is no time frame on the pool, and the pool project is contingent on the province of New Brunswick funding. I have requested numerous times through the City Manager for a copy of a letter of support to be sent to Cathy Rogers office, and the province, but I have not received a copy of that letter. I have made sure that the province is aware of the project, and I have made sure we are looking for additional funding support, but this project does not hinge on their support at all.”
He says at this point the project shouldn’t be delayed again.
“This should be put through. They should be starting to build the project for not only the citizens in that area, but in all of Moncton so they have the chance to enjoy that city owned property,” Crossman says.
Crossman says we praise the youth for improving their mental and physical health, but when it comes around to a project in the east end, it seems to fall on deaf ears.
“I understand that not everyone on Council supports the project, but this best not be held up any longer. I know that the province supports the project, and they are willing to support the residents in the area, so this has to move.”
The east end pool was closed in 2013 due to maintenance issues. Residents from the east end rallied in front of City Hall last year, in an effort to raise awareness and let the City know how important this pool is.
“These people should be getting what they’re entitled to. A promise made by council in 2015 budget deliberations and we’re here in 2018 and we still don’t have anything.”
