Business donates $30,000 to Mosgiel pool complex fund
ONE Taieri business is putting its money where its mouth is when it comes to supporting a new Mosgiel pool and is encouraging others to do the same.
KB Contractors, of Mosgiel, has pledged $30,000 towards the proposed Taieri Aquatic Centre, taking the total amount raised so far to $927,000.
Director Kelvin Read said parting with the money was a easy decision for him and his fellow director Brent Reid, who both live on the Taieri.
‘‘We’ve got a staff of somewhere near 45, which involves a lot of children, and we just want to see their future looked after.’’
The reason for going public with the donation was to encourage other businesses and individuals to give, he said.
‘‘We don’t want any special recognition but we do want to encourage others who can to contribute, to do so because this will further futureproof Mosgiel, which isn’t a sleepy little town any more.’’
Mosgiel was growing at a rapid rate, so that an amenity such as the new aquatic centre was essential, Mr Read said.
The Dunedin City Council has set aside $6.4 million in its draft 10year plan to replace the old pool but the community must raise another $7.5 million if wants its preferred design.
The council has been criticised for not funding more of the cost.
Taieri Community Facilities Trust chairwoman Irene Mosley said the trust was ready to state its case for more council funding during the 10year plan hearings next week.
Of the $927,000 raised so far, most had come from private donations, Mrs Mosley said.
‘‘To have raised this much money in nine months shows a commitment from the community and hopefully it makes the council look closely at the cost of the project and how much it is contributing to it.’’