Residents in the Town of Maple Creek are rallying together to raise funds for the construction of a much-needed community pool.  

With the town lacking a pool for the past three years, residents have come together to support the cause and ensure their community has a recreational facility to enjoy during the summer months. 

The Mayor of Maple Creek, Michelle McKenzie and the fundraising committee have been actively organizing various events to generate funds including a community BBQ earlier this week. 

“The BBQ went absolutely fantastic,” she stated. “The next thing for the fundraising committee is on July 28, they're looking to host a barn dance because of the bull riding event will be here in Maple Creek, and then they're looking at another drive-in movie.  

“So, they've been doing different little things throughout the year to try and raise some more funds within the community for the pool.” 

Thanks to the collective efforts of the fundraising committee and the support from the town, an impressive $180,000 has already been raised. Furthermore, the town of Maple Creek has received financial assistance through the Canada Infrastructure Grant, formerly known as the gas tax program.  

When combined, the total amount raised thus far reaches approximately $500,000. 

While progress is being made, there is still a significant amount of fundraising needed to reach the ultimate goal of $3,000,000.  

The town aims to raise roughly $2,500,000 more to secure the necessary funds for the pool's construction. 

“One of the things that we're looking at is to see whether we're going to have a conversation with council about borrowing the funds to build the pool, with the construction starting next year,” McKenzie added. “I know that this very enthusiastic fundraising committee is going to continue fundraising because they want to still be able to support the pool doing different things even when it's built and operational” 

The new pool will be built on the site of the town’s original pool. The old pool was shut down due to a major leak and an inability to meet health regulations. 

Regarding the features of the new pool, the design is set to include a zero-entry point, a lazy river, and a separate water slide.  

These additions will enhance the overall experience for swimmers and ensure the pool meets modern standards. The design process involves ongoing consultations with the Swimming Pool Committee, who have been instrumental in the fundraising efforts. 

With the enthusiastic support of the community and ongoing fundraising initiatives, the town of Maple Creek remains optimistic about realizing their dream of a new community pool.  

"Without those sponsors, I don't think it would have been as successful, their generosity has been instrumental in making this project a reality,” McKenzie concluded.