This could be a summer of discontent for Ross River residents.

Yukon Party MLA Stacey Hassard has sent a letter to Community Services Minister Richard Mostyn about the shut-down Ross River pool.

“I am writing with respect to the swimming pool in Ross River, which has been closed since 2018,” Hassard wrote in a letter last week. 

“Residents continue to contact me about the necessity of the swimming pool to the community. When I raised this previously via letter and questions in the Yukon Legislative Assembly, you indicated that work would be done in 2022 to have it ready to open in the 2023 season.”

The Yukon government responded with a statement from cabinet communications staff.

“The Ross River pool was last operational in the 2017 season. Constructed in 1999, the facility has significant foundation issues that could affect its continued operation,” the statement said.

“The Ross River pool was anticipated to open in 2023 following completion of critical repairs to the pool systems; however, additional areas of concerns were identified in the repair process preventing its opening.

“The department is currently working to determine how we can address the 2023 building assessment findings.”

The government is reviewing Hassard’s letter and will respond “as promptly as possible,” the statement indicated.

In his letter, Hassard noted, “There has been zero investment in recreational infrastructure in Ross River since this government took office (in late 2016). The community has limited alternative recreational opportunities, and driving to other communities to swim is not an option for many families.

“The pool is incredibly important for the youth of Ross River and for all community members,” Hassard said.

He has also presented a petition signed by 113 Ross River residents in support of the reopening of a viable pool in the village.