Sarnia council has decided to take the extra strokes -- hoping a big finish will pay off.
In a 4-3 recorded vote, council opted to refer development of a multi-purpose gathering place or to rebuild Jackson Pool to the Parks and Recreation Master Plan to be completed next year.
"The pool as it is right now is dead," said Councillor Cindy Scholten. "I feel like if we support this motion we are still giving it a chance, rather then saying today we're done with the pool or we're not done. We're still keeping it alive."
Applauding work done in Strathroy-Caradoc to open a new aquatic park, Councillor Anne Marie Gillis agreed that having a plan in place first is the best course of action.
"Sometimes when you think you have something and you think you know what you want, but you don't really do the research and take the time to plan it out, it may not be what is best for the community," said Gillis.
Councillors Brian White, Dave Boushy and Andy Bruziewicz voted against the recommendation.
"I believe the community is very strongly in favour of a pool, at some point," said White. "I will oppose this today, but as a responsible leader would and should do -- should this motion pass -- you will have my full support and I will do everything I can to push forward with this matter plan and community engagement."
Councillor Mike Kelch and Mayor Mike Bradley did not attend Monday's meeting.
Council decided last April to "temporarily" close the 44' x 82' in-ground pool after staff reported that the pool, built in 1966, was in need of major improvements.
A pool supply and construction company estimated structural repairs, a pool liner replacement, accessibility upgrades and asbestos remediation to cost over $580,000.
The figure provided this year was significantly higher than an estimate of $167,000 made in 2016.
