Swimmers who bought a season’s pass to Rimbey’s new aquatic centre may end up getting a refund if the pool’s growing pains continue.
Town CAO Tony Goode said refunds are being considered and may be given out depending on the length of time the pool remains closed.
Last week, the journey to the pool’s deep end could be taken without even getting one’s toes wet, but even though the structure is now devoid of water, both the rec director and the pool manager remain optimistic the worst is over.
Since it opened a few weeks ago, the pool has been closed twice for repairs to leaks in the drain box.
The pool began losing water several days ago and rec director Rick Kreklewich immediately notified the main contractor, Western Recreation.
A diver was sent out and a leak in the drain box was identified as the cause of the problem.
The leak was repaired, but the pool was opened only a short time before it began to lose water again.
This time the pool, which continued to leak water, was drained and it was discovered the wells in the main drain box had let go due to the weight of the water.
“It isn’t as serious a problem as we were afraid of,” said Kreklewich. ”We should be able to have it fixed fairly quickly.”
Kreklewich realizes the closures are frustrating to the public, which has waited for some time for the pool to be open.
“I know it’s frustrating, but it’s frustrating for us as well and we are doing everything we can. We are doing are very best to have the pool up and running as soon as possible and we really appreciate everyone being patient and understanding.”
Goode said the pool is under warranty so the cost of repairs is covered.
While the pool is closed due to repairs, the floors in the change rooms are being treated with a non-skid paint to ensure the safety of all users.
Pool manager Kira More said adult basic and stroke lesson will be held in July. Basic adult lessons will begin July 2 and be held Monday and Wednesdays from 8 to 9 p.m.
Stroke lessons will run July 16 to 25 from 8 to 9 p.m.
Lifesaving and bronze medallion courses, prerequisites for becoming a lifeguard, will also be held in July.
For more information about the lessons offered at Rimbey pool check out www.rimbey.com