Honourable Coralee OakesSeptember 11, 2014

Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development

PO Box 9056 StnProvGovt

Victoria, BC V8W 9E2

Dear Minister Oakes,

In February 2013, residents of Vanderhoof and the surrounding Electoral Area “F” voted overwhelmingly in support of authorizing our local government to borrow $4 million – to be repaid through our property taxes – to partially finance the construction of an Aquatic Centre in Vanderhoof. That referendum, and the enormous community support in advance of it, was the first step towards our community’s goal of building an aquatic centre. Now, we are looking for support from the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development and monetary support from the Province of B.C. in order to make this goal a reality.

Community members have committed to fundraising $500,000 to contribute to the construction of the Aquatic Centre – no small feat for a town of 4,500 and a surrounding area of 3,000 – but we still require an additional $7.5 million before construction can happen. We are looking to industry and government partners for this portion of the cost and we know that we will not be able to accomplish our goal and break ground without the monetary support of the Province of B.C. I am writing to ask for your support and the support of your Ministry for this project.

I believe that an Aquatic Centre will make Vanderhoof a stronger, healthier, and more vibrant community. I am requesting your support because I believe that an Aquatic Centre is a strong fit with the purpose and mandate of the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development for three reasons in particular:

  1. An Aquatic Centre will support recreation and healthy living in Vanderhoof. Swimming is a unique activity in that it is family-friendly, appropriate for a wide range of ages, and provides diverse opportunities for involvement including casual recreation, exercise, rehabilitation, and sport.
  2. An Aquatic Centre will create additional opportunities for sport participation and athletic achievement in Vanderhoof. The timing of this investment is well-placed to capitalize on the enthusiasm for sport in the Stuart-Nechako region generated by the Canada Winter Games in Prince George.
  3. An Aquatic Centre will add an important piece of infrastructure in Vanderhoof to attract and retain professionals and other workers. With liquefied natural gas and mining investments set to bring new jobs to this region, an Aquatic Centre will encourage this workforce to live, play, and settle here, boostingVanderhoof’s economic and social strength and resiliency.

In the coming months, Mayor and Council will be approaching the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development asking for monetary support for the construction of the Vanderhoof Aquatic Centre. The community support for this initiative is incredibly strong and our local fundraising efforts have already proven successful with a series of events planned. I hope that we can count your Ministry amongst the partners who will support this important project.

Sincerely,