A public-private partnership behind the revamp and operation of the Municipal Pools could be on the cards.
Hamilton city councillor Ewan Wilson says while he believes the council has an obligation to be a significant player in the project financially, he doesn't think it should be the sole funder.
"I want to make sure that while we are cornerstone partners that we're not the majority funder," Mr Wilson said. "A public-private partnership - that's the best sort of partnership because the very people who are not only asking for the provision of the service are also prepared to raise funds, which means they would be keen to ensure the facility is well utilised. That's the ultimate outcome. Maybe public-private partnerships are the way we need to look."
A report on plans for the city's Municipal Pools complex at the south end of Victoria St was presented at yesterday's Operations and Activity Performance Committee meeting. It outlined a three-stage plan to refurbish the pools.
The first stage would involve the demolition of several parts of the facility, including the existing large pool, which is considered beyond repair, and the development of new changing rooms, office space, green space and relocation of the existing plant. Stage one of the projected is estimated at $4.7 million (including GST).