In spite of a proposed, new method of taxation, Ormstown residents soundly rejected the project to refurbish the municipal pool and construct water games during a referendum held last Sunday on this subject.
Out of a total of 2 878 registered voters, only 239 citizens voted in favour of the project while, at 426, nearly double voted against it. There was one spoiled ballot. The rate of participation was approximately 23% or a quarter of registered voters.
These results confirm the population’s rejection of this project for which 430 citizens signed the Loan By-law register that was held on August 31. The project was also rejected by an initial referendum held last May 31.
In its most recent version, the total cost of the project, estimated at $1 264 275, could have represented a cost of $55.70 per year for 20 years based on the
1 821 current taxable units. This amount might decrease over the years depending on residential and commercial development which could increase the number of units.
It is worth noting that the municipal pool has been closed since 2009. Various requests for subsidies have been submitted over the years for both indoor and outdoor projects.
The current project would have made it possible to offer public swimming and water games from mid-May. The pool program could also have included swimming lessons for children, classes for life guards or aqua-fitness.
We were unable to reach Mayor Christian Soucy for comment at the time of writing.
Translated by Cathleen Johnston
