Township staff provided a summary of the report, noting that, depending on provincial restrictions, both pools could open in late June. It was noted that there are a sufficient number of lifeguards to operate and monitor the pools for public and adult swim, however, due to the pandemic shutting down the instructor training courses, there are not enough trained and qualified lifeguards to teach swimming lessons. It was noted that the public may need to register for time slots to swim in order to keep track of the number of public accessing the pool.
Committee discussed the report and inquired why the Town of Prescott is planning to open their pool between June 7-10. It was noted that the pool in Prescott is heated which allows for an earlier opening. Staff confirmed that there is no restriction on water temperature and that the Township is proposing to open the pools on the third weekend of June. It was noted that if the province reduces the restrictions on June 2, each pool would likely have a capacity limit of 25 people. Members confirmed that if a lifeguard resigns the Township could still operate both pools.
Members noted that the donation from Ingredion and Greenfield would only be utilized if the Township offered swimming lessons. Members noted that the Town of Prescott entered into an agreement with the YMCA to run the swimming programs at the Prescott pool. Members inquired if Township staff have consulted with the YMCA to determine if the Township could also enter into an agreement for lifeguard services. It was noted that staff are unaware of the agreement details with Prescott but can follow-up with the YMCA.
Committee discussed the issue of student lifeguards not being able to access and attend certification training due to no courses being offered during the pandemic. It was noted that it may be possible for the lifeguards to attend the course after June 2 when the provincial lockdown is removed. Members suggested that the Township could cover the upfront cost of the course if the lifeguard is willing to work for the Township for the year. It was noted that if the lifeguard was willing to complete the training and work for the Township, then at the end of the season the Township could pay the student the cost of the training course. Members requested staff to report back at the Council meeting if they receive information from the YMCA in time.