The Editor,
We have all been through a lot with COVID-19, with trying to control the transmission and stop the spread. We were essentially locked down for almost four months. Everything closed and normal life did not take place for all of us. Community centres were closed, taking from seniors and children, as well as all community members, the facility that enabled them to access healthy activities and social interaction.
The Port Moody Recreation Centre is still closed six weeks after Fraser Health lifted the order of closure. Private gyms are open, community centres and pools both indoor and outdoor are open in other cities in the Lower Mainland, but not our community centre. One does wonder why this is.
Is the city saving money by remaining closed and allowing their laid off staff to enjoy a long paid holiday on CERB?
This would cut down on the cost to the city. The money announced the other day by the federal government going to provinces and municipalities is supposed to assist with these costs. Those in charge at the facility just say they are "working on a plan" and "hope to open soon.”
As a retired senior, I am ready to go back to the gym and reap the benefits of regular exercise and fitness. Does the city of Port Moody want to help in this regard for all seniors and others who enjoy working out at a gym?
We are almost in August, the sixth month of closure for Port Moody Recreation Centre. I think that is long enough to deprive a community of a very nice facility for which tax payers are still paying.
Please do the right thing and open up now.
Claire Andersen, Port Moody
