Sarnia council is hoping the development of a family rate or summer pass will help promote the use of Tecumseh Pool at the Cox Youth Centre.
Council approved a motion Monday by Anne Marie Gillis that city staff work with the YMCA to establish a family rate or summer pass, similar to other municipalities.
"And it could be anywhere from $5 for a family or $6 for a family each time they visit the pool," said Gillis. "As opposed to, let's say four [children] plus an adult that's five, that's $10. And that might not seem like a lot, but as you say, that would only allow people to go perhaps once a week."
Currently, open swim admissions at Tecumseh Pool are $2 per person, per visit.
"This way we are trying to promote the usage of a public facility for the people that need it the most," said Gillis.
Councillor Adam Kilner, who comes from a family of 13, said he understands the need for a family rate, calling it vital.
"And especially with recent economic conditions, it's essential," said Kilner. "People with three, four kids, like I just don't know how they're going to be able to afford going back and back and back, when our summers keep getting warmer and warmer and warmer. So, I think it's really important and the sooner we can get that done, probably the better."
