Council to Consider Re-opening of Aquatic Centre

Thursday, September 10, 2020

Port Alberni, BC – At present the Echo ’67 Aquatic Centre continues to be closed to the public. At the next Regular Meeting of City Council on September 14, 2020, Council will consider the Aquatic Centre operating model for the remainder of 2020.

The Aquatic Centre was initially closed in March 2020 due to province-wide restrictions related to COVID-19.  The City’s current Five-Year Financial Plan reflects a longer than usual summer closure. At the time of closure, it was anticipated that the Aquatic Centre would reopen, as usual, in September. 

As a result of operational changes that must be implemented due to COVID-19, and the potential financial implications for the City, the Aquatic Centre will remain closed until Council has the opportunity to consider the operating model going forward.

The City recognizes the Aquatic Centre is an integral component of the services provided in our community and further, that continued closure of the facility would have a significant effect in the Alberni Valley, especially to those who rely on an aquatic environment for health and wellness.

Should Council decide to proceed with re-opening, the Aquatic Centre will be ready to welcome patrons in October 2020. The City is confident in the ability to operate the Aquatic Centre in a way which ensures the safety of the public and staff while COVID-19 restrictions remain in place. In accordance with public health guidelines and facility safety plans, the City has:

•           Developed facility-specific safety plans, for the safety of both participants and staff

•           Implemented a requirement of 2 meters of physical distancing between guests, participants and staff

•           Increased the frequency of disinfection of high touch points, per the BC Centre for Disease Control

•           Limited participation numbers at our facilities

We are committed to keeping our community informed regarding the delivery of services while COVID-19 restrictions remain in place, and thank the public for their continued patience and understanding as the City navigates through these unprecedented circumstances.

Find the full report here: https://www.portalberni.ca/sites/default/files/council_mtg/Sept14_tf.pdf

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For More Information

Tim Pley, CAO

City of Port Alberni

250-720-2824

timothy_pley@portalberni.ca

Willa Thorpe, Director

Parks, Recreation & Heritage

City of Port Alberni

250-720-2516

willa_thorpe@portalberni.ca