Courtenay Annual Report 2025 draft

Aquatics participation highlights Aquatic programming remained popular in 2025, with 18,096 swim visits across City facilities — a three per cent increase from the previous year. Open swims accounted for most visits, with 14,976 participants, up 22 per cent. Family swims also grew slightly. Participation in some structured programs declined, reflecting shifts in user needs and program preferences. Courtenay and District Memorial Outdoor Pool options analysis In 2025, the City completed an options analysis to guide the long-term future of the Courtenay and District Memorial Outdoor Pool. Built in 1949, the facility has reached the end of its useful life and requires significant upgrades or replacement to maintain safe and reliable service. The study evaluated three options at the Lewis Park site — repair, renovate or replace — and also considered the implications of permanent closure. The analysis assessed community need, accessibility, climate resilience and lifecycle costs, in alignment with long-term recreation planning, including the 2023 Comox Valley Aquatic Needs Strategy. Technical reviews identified major concerns with the aging pool basin, mechanical systems, code compliance and accessibility. Cost estimates ranged from $5.2 million for short-term repairs to $32.5 million for full replacement. Community engagement in fall 2025 included 619 survey responses and two open houses. Seventy-four per cent of respondents supported replacement. Following the analysis, Council directed staff to proceed with the next phase of design for the replacement option and to approach the Comox Valley Regional District regarding regional funding support. courtenay.ca/outdoor-pool

Swim type

2024

2025

Change

Length

1,476

1,547

16%

Adapted

506

514

1.6%

Aquafit

619

537

-5%

Family

392

522

2%

Open

12,293

14,976

22%

Total

15,286

18,096

3%

42 | City of Courtenay