Ward 1 - Sonya Sharp

Inglewood Pool reconsideration

Councillor Sharp & Chabot's Notice of Motion Inglewood Pool closure reconsideration

What happened

On November 22, 2024, Council voted 12-3 to reconsider the closure of the Inglewood Pool, keeping it open until the expansion project at the MNP Community and Sport Centre in Erlton is complete.

The reconsideration, brought forward by Councillors Sharp and Chabot, includes allocating $350,000 for the pool’s most critical upgrades. Additionally, Council reinstated an annual operational funding cap of $400,000, which had previously been removed in the four-year budget.

Councillors Jennifer Wyness, Raj Dhaliwal, and Evan Spencer voted against the motion.

Overview

Councillors Sonya Sharp and Andre Chabot have introduced an urgent Notice of Motion to keep the Inglewood Pool open beyond its scheduled closure date of December 22, 2024. The motion proposes that City Council reconsider its October 8 decision, requesting $350,000 in funding for essential electrical upgrades to extend the pool’s operation through 2026.

The motion passed a technical review on November 7, 2024, Executive Committee meeting.

Background

In 2019, City Council initially voted to close the Inglewood Pool in 2027 as part of budget cuts. Recently, an accelerated closure date was set for December 2024. However, strong community feedback and a demonstrated need for local aquatic services have prompted Councillors Sharp and Chabot to advocate for maintaining the pool’s operation until renovations at the MNP Community & Sport Centre are complete.

Community impact

Now approved by Council, this motion will:

  • Ensure ongoing access to a crucial recreational facility for residents.
  • Address community demand for aquatic services, reducing service gaps.
  • Allocate operational funding of $400,000 per year, previously removed in the 2023-2026 budget adjustments.
Executive Committee Agenda
Read the Notice of Motion

“Given that Administration recently found investment income to reduce the proposed 2025 tax rate, I believe funding should also be possible to keep this essential community facility open,” said Councillor Sonya Sharp. “This is about sustaining a community hub that supports physical activity, connection, and quality of life for residents.”

Click here for a breakdown of Councillor Sharp's voting record and motions

“This is about preserving access to community recreation while we explore every option,” said Councillor Andre Chabot. “We believe the Inglewood Pool can remain a vital community asset with minor but necessary upgrades. Community pools are essential to the well-being and connectedness of our neighborhoods.”

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