Sherbrook Pool gets lifeline from Winnipeg executive committee

The city's top committee has allocated $1.7 million to re-open Sherbrook Pool.

Executive Policy Committee tabled amendments to the City of Winnipegs 2014 preliminary budget Friday, including money to upgrade a popular community pool in the West End.

• Mayor aims to reopen Sherbrook Pool

In a news release, Mayor Sam Katz said the commitment comes after listening to people in the community who made the case for re-investing in the aging facility.

Weve heard very clearly that the people of Winnipeg want to see the doors re-open on Sherbrook Pool, he said in the new release.

Katz said earlier this month he was committed to the idea.

The city said the $1.7 million will allow work to begin on the pool to make it safe for public use.

The pool needs an estimated $2.8 million for repairs and upgrades.

The city said the balance will be requested from the provincial Winnipeg Community Infrastructure Program, in conjunction with funding from private/not-for-profit groups.

EPC is also recommending:

• A grant of $75,000 to the Winnipeg Art Gallery for its Inuit Art and Learning Centre capital campaign
• A grant of $75,000 to the Western Canada Aviation Museum for its Skyward - Legends of Canadian Aviation capital campaign
• A grant of $39,000 to the African Canadian Foundation to help develop a business plan for an African cultural and community centre downtown.
• A $5,000 increase in the annual grant to the Heritage Winnipeg Corporation

The budget also proposes a $4.95 million in upgrades for Seven Oaks Indoor Pool, including a new spray pad and wading pool

The proposals are subject to council approval.

The 2014 budget goes before council next Tuesday, Dec. 17.