Plug pulled on Frank Murphy pool

Canada Day will mark the end of an aquatic era in Thunder Bay.

On July 1 the Frank Murphy Community Centre will shut its door, leaving three full-time staff and as many as 42 part-time staff to the unemployment line.

Tracy Buckler, CEO of the centre’s operator, St. Joseph’s Care Group, said mounting operating costs, which led to a $500,000 deficit in 2008/09, and shrinking revenue sources made the closure of the 30-year-old facility inevitable.

“Every year we’ve struggled to even break even with the revenues that come in from the pool programs,” Buckler said, before facing about 65 users of the facility at a question-and-answer session on Thursday afternoon. 

“We offer aquatics and wellness programs and kids swimming lessons. And it’s a very competitive business and very difficult to break even. We’ve been losing money year after year and we’re up to close to half a million dollars in losses this year.”

In fact, in the last five fiscal years, the pool whose warmer waters were favoured by arthritis sufferers and other therapeutic users, has haemorrhaged more than $2 million, with revenues dropping sharply the past two years to less than half the total operating cost.

Buckley blamed diminishing client numbers for the decision, but said she’s hopeful their loyal clientele won’t be left without options to continue programs and that staff can find work at one of the city’s other pool facilities.

“There are lots of different options, to go to different pools, to enjoy different physical activities. That’s really been our issue, the competition throughout the city, and the number of clients that were able to attract to come to Frank Murphy Community Centre.

The news was not met with much excitement, as stunned patrons listened to the reasoning behind the decision.

There were plenty of questions from a public not sure what they’ll do come closing time.
“I’ve been coming here for 20 years, once a week, winter and summer for aquatics,” said one woman, who did not give her name. “I have a back problem and the doctor cannot help me. The only reason I come here is because the water is warmer. I’ve been to the university and I’ve been to the (Canada Games) Complex, and it’s worse when you come out than when you go in.

“I’ve tried to stay ahead of my problem and it will not help when this pool is closed.”
Bruce Brown isn’t sure what his future holds.

As the pool director for the past eight years, he could find himself out of a job come July – though Buckler did say they would try to find jobs elsewhere in the organization for the three full-time staff members and that part-timers have been invited by the city to apply at the Complex.

He said he’s sad to see the pool go, and not just for selfish reasons.

“Perhaps the greatest feeling of loss is knowing that many of our clients really depended on this program to maintain as healthy and enjoyable a lifestyle as possible,” Brown said. “It’s a very important part of the routine for many people.”

Buckler said no decision has been made on what to do with the space once the pool is closed.