A new partnership with the YMCA of Eastern Ontario is bringing aquatic programming to Prescott’s Centennial Pool.
At their last council meeting, Prescott town council voted unanimously to allow the YMCA to bring its aquatic expertise to the community.
Rob Adams is the CEO for YMCA Eastern Ontario and he says this agreement will make a real difference to local residents.
“We think this is going to be the start of other conversations going forward,” Adams said. “Town council, staff, myself, and the Y staff, especially with the announcement of the new arena, we think there’s potential for adding other programs and services beyond operating the pool.”
In the report to council, town staff expressed a desire for Prescott to partner with the Y, highlighting the organization’s long history in Eastern Ontario, and its expansion of services to Gananoque and North Grenville.
Adams says the agreement allows both the town and the Y to address restrictions due to COVID, including pool opening and closing times, and whether lessons will be possible.
“Since the town doesn’t necessarily have a Parks and Recreation Department, we can provide the day-to-day oversight and experience to that piece,” Adams said. “So, there will be a different level of oversight and quality management, and it will be consistent with the YMCA.”
The partnership is a two-year agreement that will see the YMCA offer swimming lessons, aquatic certifications, and aquatic fitness.
