Kitsilano Pool’s reservation system will remain in place until at least September.
It comes after the Vancouver Park Board decided that a motion to eliminate the controversial booking system and bring back drop-in swimming was not “urgent” enough to discuss at Monday night’s meeting.
CLICK HERE TO LISTEN TO 1130 NEWSRADIO VANCOUVER LIVE!ABC Commissioner Marie-Claire Howard’s motion was dismissed, pushing the issue to the board’s next meeting in September.
The system, which requires bookings to access the iconic outdoor pool, has drawn the ire of many Kitsilano residents who argue it restricts their access.
Prior to Monday’s meeting, Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim urged Park Board commissioners to swiftly resolve the ongoing controversy surrounding the reservation system.
While some commissioners expressed doubts prior to the meeting about a quick resolution, Sim pressed for immediate action.
In a letter to the commissioners, he emphasized that Monday’s meeting is their last before September and they should not waste the opportunity to scrap the “outdated” system in time for the rest of the summer season.
In a second letter Tuesday, Sim expressed his disappointment in what he calls “deliberate inaction.”
He says it’s the latest in a long series of “issues and missteps” by the board, including “wasting millions on plans that are never actioned.”
“Vancouver residents deserve better: they want a system that works. They deserve easier access to our swimming pools, parks, and facilities. In light of yesterday’s inaction,” Sim wrote, adding that he will explore all options with city staff to eliminate the system.
The mayor also expressed his frustration with B.C. Premier David Eby’s refusal to dissolve the park board and transfer its responsibilities to city council.