Fundraising efforts for Scotia Pool underway
BIBLE HILL - Another step in the effort to keep Scotia Pool afloat is underway. Glenda Bower, spokeswoman for the Scotia Pool Society, told the Truro Daily News a new fundraiser for the facility has officially begun. The effort focuses on local businesses. “We are approaching businesses throughout the county, offering them an advertising sign, 2x3 feet, for a year inside the pool building,” explained Bower, adding the cost to the business would be $ 200 and the signage would remain up for at least a year. The signage would say, “These businesses support your pool. Please support them.” In the meantime, a “couple” of financial donations, totalling more than $ 300, have been given to the pool as well. “People spontaneously donated to us. It says to us that people believe in the pool ... people are interested,” said Bower. While these efforts help, there is a long way to go financially. Bower confirmed the pool’s operating budget for a year is $ 300,000. The Scotia Pool Society continues to await word from Colchester County about a request of $ 50,000 for pool operations and $ 25,000 for capital requirements. “That’s not a lot to ask for a recreational facility . . . we are not asking for all the budget, just a portion and no recreation facility operates without funding,” said Bower. Assistance will not go to waste, said Bower. “People still ask, ‘ you are still open?’ We are solid until August and I fully anticipate having a lease in our hand” at that point, she said. Bower added Scotia Pool continues to see an increase in attendance, with at least 2,000 to 3,000 visitors a month. “The need for this pool is there. And the Wilson Aquatic Centre ( at the Rath Eastlink Community Centre) is full too,” she said, meaning both facilities are needed.