Redland City Council has resolved to enter an interim agreement with the state government for a minimum of six months for the management of the Bay Islands Aquatic Centre.
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This interim agreement will allow time to conduct further face to face community consultation and ensure a range of appropriate long-term management models are explored.
Following a protest by residents last year, Cr Mark Edwards called for council to engage residents prior to the expiry in April of a memorandum of understanding with the Education Department, which owns the Bay Island Aquatic Centre.
Residents expressed a desire for longer and more consistent opening hours, a longer season (facilitated by the installation of a heat pump), more seating on the grass area, availability of seasonal tickets and more flexible pricing options. Currently the pool season is from the September 21 until April 19.
Speaking in a council meeting on Wednesday, Cr Mark Edwards said he was disappointed with the report as there seemed to be a misunderstanding of the motion (community consultation) he brought to council about a year ago. He was hoping it would come back with solutions to the residents concerns including the extended hours of the pool.
Cr Edwards said he spoke to a man on Russell Island who was part of a group who swam laps early in the morning.
"The gentleman said he didn't understand why council employed a lifeguard during that time as many who swam there were ex-coaches or held lifesaving certificates. They said they'd be happy to pay to use the pool and do their own lifesaving. This could be one option for extended hours," he said.
Cr Edwards said it would be helpful to get reports from officers on alternate models and the financial implications for council.
"Lets get an array of options that meet the desire of the community and we can see what works and what doesn't work," he said.
He said there may be an opportunity for a cooperative for the community.
"Residents love the pool and its a good facility, but it is underused," Cr Edwards said.
Cr Paul Bishop urged council to listen to the community as he felt it was an opportunity to set up a cooperative to manage the pool.
"Islanders can roll-up their sleeves and get involved. It will require different funding and legislation, but the community has a right to use the pool," he said.
