Lyonel Doherty

Times-Chronicle

While some people don’t like surveys, there is one being planned that many locals will want to fill out with a big “splash.”

The South Okanagan Aquatic Centre Advisory Committee is preparing a comprehensive public consultation process to get people’s feedback on the proposed indoor pool project.

Committee members met this morning by Zoom to continue discussions on the feasibility study led by consultant Jon Hack from Sierra Planning and Management.

The committee is looking at five potential locations for the pool, including the preferred site of Highway 97 and Fruitvale Way (near Road 22) north of Osoyoos.

Other sites include Desert Park in Osoyoos, Test Orchard in Osoyoos, Highway 97 and Road 1 in Oliver and Community Park in Oliver.

“Location is something that could trip this up if we don’t get it right,” said Hack, referring to drive time and public access.

The consultant explained he is currently involved in discussions with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure regarding the Fruitvale Way site. Issues include the existing gravel pit and its reclamation, in addition to decommissioning a portion of a right-of-way. Hack said a road closure application is required to obtain a portion of the highway right-of-way.

They also need proof that pit reclamation is complete and the site is not contaminated, he pointed out.

Committee member Mike Campol said the Osoyoos Indian Band (OIB) needs to be involved in these conversations so they are not “caught off guard.”

Committee member Dave Mattes agreed, saying including the OIB is crucial to make the process easier and quicker.

Hack said they plan to consult with stakeholders and user groups to get their feedback on what they want to see in the facility. For example, do they want a four-lane pool or eight lanes? What other multi-use amenities do they desire . . .  a tanning deck, mini spray park, water slide, sauna, gymnasium and weight room? Or even a pirate ship?

“We’re not going to get carried away, we won’t be advocating a bigger building beyond our scope,” Hack said.

However, he added that you don’t normally build a stand-alone aquatic centre with noting attached to it.

He said that an online questionnaire will be sent out to the public (via website) to gain insight on people’s desires.

A public meeting was also discussed to host some real-time questions, but provincial health orders may curtail that.

Committee member Dave Mattes said they can hold a meeting as long as you limit the number of people, while some wait outside.

“Zoom is nice but not the best way to hold a meeting; face to face is far better,” he said.

Committee member Barry Romanko said the questionnaire should ask how much people are willing to pay in user fees and taxes.

Hack said they have to be careful not to set themselves up, noting they don’t want to scare people by suggesting a tax increase. Alternatively, people could be asked if they are prepared to entertain an increase in user fees (for swim programs) in exchange for a new aquatic centre.

The survey could also ask respondents how they would use the facility; are they competitive swimmers?

As far as location goes, Hack said it is reasonable to assume that people would want the facility closer to where they live. He noted that factors include drive time, parking, visibility, safety, and public transportation.

There was also talk about including an ice arena infrastructure in the plan, but Mattes urged the committee to stick with the original terms of reference for the aquatic centre.

Hack said they hope to have a draft plan of the project this fall.