Where's the extra money for the new Mount Forest pool coming from?

MOUNT FOREST – The additional funds needed for the new Mount Forest outdoor pool could come out of taxpayers' pockets. 

Presented during council Thursday afternoon, a recent report on the detailed design and proposed work plan provided a new cost estimate of approximately $5.5 million, $200,000 more than was previously estimated based on the schematic design. 

"The Mount Forest Aquatics Ad Hoc Advisory committee believes we know our community the best," said Coun. Sherry Burke. "And with the talents we have...we look forward to implementing this fundraising strategy.” 

Assuming a successful $2.5 million fundraising campaign over 18 months, an additional report said the township expects to tender the project and have it built in 2025 and then open the pool for its inaugural season in 2026.

"So where's the extra money going to come from?" asked Coun. Steve McCabe. 

According to Tammy Stevenson, senior project manager, staff will review the cost once they reach certain fundraising targets

But Burke asked council to set aside dedicated funds for the additional pool project costs in the 2024 and 2025 budgets. 

“We know today from the number we have been using to get where we are now has gone up," said Burke. "So by the time we get to actual builds, it’s going to go up again." 

McCabe was less enthused by the idea, asking for a more fulsome discussion before taxpayers are expected to pick up the overrun costs. 

The new outdoor pool, located next to the Mount Forest Sportsplex, would include an accessible beach entry, lap swimming, diving tank, children’s area and spots for aquafit and swim lessons. 

Also included is a new bathhouse with accessible showers and change rooms, staff and guard areas, shaded areas on the deck and spectator seating areas. 

Some pool accessories and equipment are excluded from the cost estimate and operating expenses are not included either. 

According to Dale Small, manager of community and economic development, fundraising will kick off in January.

Isabel Buckmaster is the Local Journalism Initiative reporter for GuelphToday. LJI is a federally-funded program.