Edmonton City Council,

As individuals who frequent City Of Edmonton aquatic facilities on a regular basis, we were disappointed to see the new aquatics schedules that were unveiled February 1st/2020. Hours have been cut back significantly. Aquatic facilities are an important resource for many Edmontonians. 

We recognize the most recent provincial budget has placed onus on the city to reign in spending, however, we feel meaningful savings could be realized internally, without drastic changes for citizens. Other communities have not chosen to proceed in this manor. Strathcona County for example has a closing time of 11PM at some of it's facilities. Strathcona County is experiencing the same budgetary constraints as the city of Edmonton.

We respectfully ask the following of council: 

1. All facilities have seen their weekend hours clawed back. The latest any aquatic facility is open on a Sunday is now 9:30PM. This is far too early for many. We ask that the city restore the 10PM closing time for many of it's aquatic facilities on both Saturday & Sunday evenings. 

2. During the week, some facilities (E.G Hardisty Pool) had closing times of 10:30. This allowed many to attend in the later evening, but still have enough time to enjoy the facility. The latest closing time is now 10PM. We would ask that the city restore the 10:30PM closing time at a couple of it's facilities during the week. 

Your immediate attention to this matter would be appreciated. Many of us depend on these facilities to enhance our quality of life. They not only provide fitness & relaxation, but also a great opportunity to build community. These minor changes will have little effect on the overall city budget, but will have a positive effect on the lives of many. 

Sincerely,

Edmonton Aquatic Facility Users