Why some municipalities are opting to not replace aging outdoor pools [Video]

Some Southwestern Ontario municipalities are opting to not repair or replace aging outdoor pools due to a short swimming season and overflowing costs.

In Woodstock, Lions Pool was a summertime swimming destination for 75 years. But in 2023, holes were found in the pool liner.

“The decision was made not to spend any more money on it,” Woodstock Mayor Jerry Acchione said.

Lions Pool was closed. The plan had been to decommission it within a couple of years anyway, with a replacement outdoor pool to be built at Cowan Fields, in the city’s east end.

However, in March, the new pool project was paused by city council.

“During the budget deliberations, it was decided to hold back and not proceed with that, again, because of the financial burdens citizens are facing right now,” Acchione explained.

The mayor estimated the new pool would have cost $5.4 million.

“I can’t speak for …