With regard to the negative comments concerning the proposed Vanderhoof pool in your February 4th edition, I must strongly disagree with the writers' perspectives. Obviously not all of us are fortunate enough to live beside a lake. Many of us will also know someone or of someone who has drowned. Therefore, let us not deprive our community of this life-saving skill . I believe Vanderhoof can afford a pool, and will not be "drowning in debt."
I have read another editorial that says the pool is a colossal waste of taxpayer's money. To which my response is: What is the cost of a human life? For, how can teaching children and adults to swim; providing aquatic activities for those with arthritis; recovering from injuries; heart disease; and very importantly people with disabilities, and others; a place for our elderly to exercise, away from icy sidewalks, or just a place for relaxation, not be of primary importance? And of course how can the old syndrome known to all kids of what can we do on Friday and Saturday nights, be a waste of money, when the community pool will fulfill these needs and many more. I would be remiss not to mention the vital role that belonging and participating in a community has on one's mental and physical wellbeing.
The only objection to having a community pool in Vanderhoof seems to be the cost. Based on comparisons of pools in other similar northern communities, the consultant's (PERC Consulting) opinion is that we can afford a pool. In the end it comes down to whether the people are willing to invest in the health of their community. There are many people who feel that even if they never use the pool the benefits to their neighbours, family and friends is worth the price of a cup of coffee a day (my math says an additional cost to taxes of $200/year divided by 52 weeks gives $3.85 a week). Also, take time to download and read the proposed pool brochure at www.vanderhoofpool.ca . It is very informative.
Please have an open mind about this very important issue and I hope you will vote yes on February 16th, for a community pool in Vanderhoof.
Barbara Loland
Vanderhoof
