The town’s current pool is nearly 50 years old. (Facebook).

By Nigel Maxwell

Community events

Shellbrook pool project receives massive wave of support from community

Feb 7, 2023 | 3:00 PM

While it’s still unclear whether Shellbrook is getting a new outdoor pool, or renovating the current facility, the project’s steering committee has received a big boost from the community.

During their meeting on Monday, town council passed a resolution to dedicate the funds raised from the upcoming sale of the museum buildings and artifacts to the pool project. Mayor Amund Otterson explained the money had to go somewhere.

“It would have just gone into general coffers otherwise and be used for whatever, possibly the swimming pool,” he said.

The resolution from council comes on the heels of a recent fundraiser that raised $27,000, as well as a donation that same night for $40,000 from the Parkside Community Association.

“There’s a bit of momentum for the swimming pool and seeing 200 people out at an event, was very encouraging,” Amundson said. “It’s a big project and will take some time but seeing that kind of interest is motivating.”

Leadership

Ronald Bear re-elected Chief at Muskoday First Nation

1h ago

Rise Air resuming Sunday flights from PA to northern communities

1h ago

Shooting

Window hit during drive by shooting in East Flat

21h ago

Parkside Community Club President Jory Segberg, and pool committee member Mark Klaassen. (Facebook/Parkside Demolition Derby)

Discussions around the pool project were essentially kickstarted in July, 2021. A feasibility study found the cost to replace the current pool is over $4 million. The cost to fix the current facility is approximately $2.6 million.

Amundson noted there is no rush as a new liner was just unstalled in the community’s current pool last summer and it has a shelf life of four to five years.

Meanwhile the donation from the Parkside Community Club, represents the largest one-time donation in the club’s history.

“The current swimming pool facility is in need of massive upgrades, or complete replacement. Our hope is that this donation will help kickstart the fundraising campaign, being organized by the hardworking volunteers spearheading this project,” a statement on the group’s Facebook page read.

Pool committee Chair Mark Klaasen told paNOW it is humbling to receive such a large donation from such an important community club.

“They have done so much for our area already, and to see how important our project is to them as well is a huge motivation as to why we are doing this. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for the generosity of the Parkside community club,” he said.

With respect to the town’s old CN station and the historic Rayside school, some new information is available with respect to their fate.

On-site viewing for the museum auction will take place on Friday, March 10 and Saturday, March 11. The auction will take place online on March 12, 2023 or in person at Schmaltz Auction Services.

—

nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell