Dear editor:
What an interesting debate taking place in Cochrane. I gather from discussion and from very extensive opposition coverage in our two weekly newspapers that those opposed to the pool/curling facility are on the side of the righteous and those folks who support the project are Neanderthals. The opposition are so entrenched that they are now committed to a plebiscite taking direct aim at our elected council.
In my own case, I was part of a friendly coffee time discussion a couple of weeks ago, at which time, I indicated that I wanted further understanding before making my final decision for full support (even though I had supported an earlier curling group donation).
Once I made a decision to support the project, I was disappointed to learn that my personal integrity was now in question. That inference was further enhanced by a critical note from a coffee partner following a senior curling group meeting, where we voted to contribute $1,000 from our senior ‘mixed’ bonspiel proceeds to the fundraising efforts.
My reason for support of both the pool and the curling rink/all purpose facility is that we ought to be preparing ourselves for a population increase in the near and long term.
We are experiencing a significant younger population growth, a growth that will undoubtedly demand more recreation facilities, including a pool and a curling rink. It seems rather selfish if those of us in declining years do not contribute to the future residents. A barely-adequate facility built now would likely find the next generation wondering why we were so shortsighted. The current swimming pool facility is a good example. Personally, my thoughts parallel the old adage ‘build it and they will come’. Contrary to the many letters-to-the-editor, I fail to see how this project relates to traffic control or road improvement, much of which is in the hands of the provincial government.
While I still curl, it is unlikely that I would ever use the new pool, but I was one of an initial small group who advocated for inclusion of the Warm Water Therapy Pool section as a healthcare asset for our area. It is very satisfying to know that it is a part of the overall plan, catering to both recreation and health.
Recently, I noticed that a completely new recreational complex was being built in northwest Calgary and it seemed to be getting 100 per cent support from elected officials and from the communities it is designed to serve. This is certainly not the case here.
In our case, the facts just might be clouded by erroneous rhetoric. The pro side of the curling argument can be found in the Cochrane Curling Club Board’s position paper titled, “Cochrane’s New Aquatic Centre And Multi-Use Facility.” My respectful suggestion is that you read and digest it before reaching for a pen to sign any plebiscite.
Even Neanderthals support the future!
Robert (Bob) Head
