Another local organization has come through with a huge donation for the future Regional Aquatic Centre (RAC).
During the Jan. 9 meeting of the District of Kent Council, a delegation from the presented the district with a $5,000 cheque toward the construction of the RAC. Representatives from the Rod and Gun Club wanted to give back to the district and thank them for their support over the years.
Government grant funding totalling $10 million will partially fund the RAC’s construction. Efforts through community events, private donations, merchandise sales and fundraising from local organizations have thus far brought in nearly $90,000; the district’s goal is to raise a total of $1 million for the cause.
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The current plans for the future 27,000-square-foot building call for an eight-lane lap pool, a sauna, leisure pool, a lazy river and more. The exterior is meant to feature First Nations artwork and floor-to-ceiling, southeast-facing windows to provide natural light and a view of the mighty Mount Cheam.
The RAC will ultimately replace the outdoor Ferny Coombe Pool, which was built in 1978. Though the pool has been a mainstay and the home of the Agassiz-Harrison Aquanauts Swim Club for many years, the pool has outlived its life expectancy and would be beyond repair should mechanical or structural failure occur.
RELATED: Agassiz-Harrison’s Regional Aquatic Centre fundraising efforts net nearly $87,000 this year
Those who wish to donate to the RAC’s construction can visit kentbc.ca to find out more.
In other council business:
- During her report, Mayor Sylvia Pranger reminded the public to pick up after pets who relieve themselves on the sidewalk. While walking on Monday (Jan. 9), she spotted at least three full pet waste bags on the ground. Pranger asked pet owners to continue to respect others by cleaning up after their animals.
“Why can’t people be responsible and take it to the garbage can?” Pranger said. “People do like to walk in this community and they do walk a lot.”
- A report from the Agassiz Fire Department indicated more than 1,000 volunteer hours were logged in December. Former Fire Chief Wayne Dyer contributed the most individual hours with 99 logged.
The next regular District of Kent Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 23, at 7 p.m. at Municipal Hall (7170 Cheam Avenue). Online attendance is also available via Microsoft Teams; those interested can register through kentbc.ca.
adam.louis@ ahobserver.com
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