We asked our readers on Facebook what questions they would like to ask the mayor about the new arts and aquatic center – now we’re bringing you the answers.
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The Bay Post/Moruya Examiner picked your top three questions, and put them to Eurobodalla Shire Council Mayor Liz Innes.
A video of the interview is available online, but for those who like their news in writing, read on.
Q: What is going to happen to the Mini Golf?
A: “If you have a look at the different concepts, unfortunately, the whole space will be needed to accommodate the arts and aquatic space,” Clr Innes said.
“I’m still hopeful though that we can accommodate the Mini Golf in there – I can see how much our local community and visitors alike love the Mini Golf. I think that would be a really good suit if you look at the (other elements) in that space.
“In the initial phase, it will have to go because of construction. Then there’s the space issue. The council is in negotiations with the owners – I can’t go into details about that, it’s between the Mini Golf and the council.”
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Q: Why a 25-metre pool, not a 50-metre pool?
A: “Council is going to be looking at providing a ten-lane, 25-metre pool, plus all the other elements,” Cr Innes said.
“This isn’t just about one pool, it’s about a whole aquatics facility, including a therapy pool, learn to swim pool and water slides and those types of things. We are trying to provide something for everyone in our community.
“The extra 25-metres, the reality of the costs involved are a $6.5million extra build. When we’re looking at a $51million facility, that’s a substantial amount. Most importantly, it’s $300, 000 extra per year in running costs.
“The council made a clear commitment that this facility would not be provided to the community with a rate increase.
“Currently, the facility we have runs at a $180, 000 loss. We are very conscious that the facility we provide must be affordable.
“We have debated the 25-metre and 50-metres scenario numerous times. Every time the council has gone to vote … it has been a unanimous decision from the council that we would be supporting a 25-metre, 10-lane pool.
“There is an element of the community that is focused on the 50-metre, but we’re encouraging the community to give us other feedback – there are some people who have given us some really good constructive feedback, it’s been really helpful.”
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Q: Will the new centre bring employment opportunities?
A: “During the construction phase there will be considerable employment opportunities, but also when the facility is up and running there should be some potential for employment in this space,” Clr Innes said.
“The message I would like to get out to people is that we are still having our public kiosks – please come along and give us your feedback.”
