The sudden closure of Barrhead’s pool is a grievous blow to the community.
Of course, the decision most directly affects staff and pool users like Barrhead Swim Club, the schools, seniors and the Queen of Hearts triathletes. It also has a ripple effect: fewer people booking hotels, eating in restaurants and shopping during swim meets; professionals like doctors deciding not to relocate here; Barrhead families moving to places like Westlock.
As news of the pool closure spread around Barrhead, citizens raised serious questions and concerns with the Leader.
*If the pool was considered unsafe in 2011, why wasn’t it closed then? Or why weren’t critical deficiencies addressed?
*The 2014 Alberta Health Services report on the pool did not use words like unsafe or dangerous. So why the rush to shut the pool? Why wasn’t June 30, 2014 used as the closure date? That was the deadline set by AHS for roof repairs.
*Why was Aquatics Supervisor Debbie Crossland hired just two months ago?
*Why didn’t the drive for a new aquatic centre start a lot sooner to ensure a smooth transition?
It is easy to be judgmental in hindsight, nevertheless accountability is important when a major asset disappears overnight. In the meantime, Barrhead must pick itself up, dust itself down and build a pool to make the community proud.
