Sarnia city council is still on the merry-go-round when it comes to Jackson Pool.
In a report to council Monday, staff are once again recommending that council refer development of a multi-purpose gathering place or to rebuild Jackson Pool to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to be completed next year.
Mayor Mike Bradley doesn't support the direction.
"This pool has now been closed for two seasons, this now would make it into a third season and I think this council has an obligation to make a decision and to move forward," says Bradley.
This past September, a petition was presented to council with nearly 2,000 signatures from residents wanting the pool rebuilt by next summer.
Public consultation was also held this fall.
"The public has been very clear that they wish to see the pool restored, or rebuilt in a different manner, or they want to see a new pool," says Bradley. "So, I believe this council has an obligation to not accept this recommendation."
Council decided last April to "temporarily" close the 44 ft by 82 ft in-ground pool after staff reported that the pool, built in 1966, was in need of major improvements.
A pool supply and construction company estimated structural repairs, a pool liner replacement, accessibility upgrades and asbestos remediation to cost over $580,000.
The figure provided this year was significantly higher than an estimate of $167,000 made in 2016.
