Several small donations have made a big impact in the future of recreation in Agassiz.
During the most recent District of Kent Council meeting, Coun. Susan Spaeti reported that the district officially reached the $500,000 community fundraising mark, halfway to their $1 million goal.
Spaeti – who serves on the fundraising committee for the Let'emot Regional Recreation and Aquatic Centre (LRRAC) – thanked the committee for their dedication in organizing a variety of grassroots fundraising events, including April 5's golf tournament and an upcoming event on May 24 at the Agassiz Speedway.
"Just the residents in general have collected over $270,000, so it is the small amounts that have really helped us reach $500,000," Spaeti told council. "It's really exciting."
Corporate sponsors for the future pool facility include Timbro Contracting, Enbridge, Marlon Recreational Products, Agassiz Fire Department Society, Agassiz-Harrison Rod and Gun Club and St. Anthony's of Padua Parish Thrift Store. Armstrong Sand and Gravel and Agassiz Ready Mix are providing in-kind services and will be recognized when their contracts are fulfilled.
"Every drop counts to fill the pool," said Mayor Sylvia Pranger. "It doesn't matter if it's a little amount or a large amount. It all makes a difference and it's all showing how much people are looking forward to using the pool."
The 27,000-square-foot facility is now under construction. The future pool facility – which will attach to the current Community Recreational and Cultural Centre on Pioneer Avenue – will feature an eight-lane lap pool, lazy river and a leisure pool. Current funds raised through municipal funds, multiple levels of government grants and sponsorships have reached more than $24 million.
In other council business:
- Coun. Stan Watchorn encouraged the residents of the district to vote.
"We're dealing with very challenging economic situations, tariffs and our international relationships," he said. "Your vote will count."
- Council approved donating recreation passes as silent auction items for the Agassiz Elementary Secondary School 2025 dry grad event. The class plans to raise $8,000 to send the grads on a Vancouver harbour cruise. The community may donate silent auction items until the May 26 Burgers and Brew event. To learn more, email beekacameron@hotmail.com.
- District staff successfully secured a $1,900 grant from the BC Hydro Community Regreening Program to plant new trees along east Pioneer Avenue, Harrison Highlands Park and Westlin Park.
The next regular District of Kent Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 28, at 6 p.m. at Municipal Hall (7170 Cheam Ave.). Online attendance is also available via Microsoft Teams; those interested can register through kentbc.ca.
