As the summer heat intensifies, many people seek refuge in the closest pool to cool off. However, those who frequent the Hampstead pool are now facing a dilemma.
The prices for accessing the pool facilities have skyrocketed, leading some to accuse the town of excluding them through pricing.
Arlene Havrot-Landry is among those affected. Her family has created countless memories at the Hampstead pool over the years, and her son even became a lifeguard there during the pandemic. They love the pool so much that they commute from the Notre-Dame-de-Grâce neighborhood.
“It has been a community hub, a gathering place. It’s safe, it’s where you learn to swim and have endless fun,” Havrot-Landry said.
However, the fun came to an abrupt end when the price of day passes to access the pool dramatically increased.
“What I felt was a deep sense of humiliation because I knew that this increase in rates was not necessary to generate more revenue for the pool,” Havrot-Landry expressed.
Residents of Hampstead now have to pay $15 for a day pass, regardless of age, while non-residents have to pay $25.
Last year, adult residents paid $6 and children paid $4 for entry. Non-residents paid $8 per adult and $5 per child.
“Wow, that’s a significant increase. Much more than before,” commented Alyssa Obdosantos, who was walking her dog in the nearby park.
Robert Miller, another Hampstead resident, expressed his surprise at the increased cost of his annual membership. Nevertheless, he paid it because he enjoys swimming outdoors during the summer.
Hampstead Mayor Jeremy Levi defends the price adjustment, stating that it was long overdue and based on feedback from Hampstead residents.
The popularity of the pool has led to challenges such as disputes over access and hygiene concerns, according to Mayor Jeremy Levi.
In a statement to Global News, Levi stressed Hampstead’s commitment to inclusivity and creating an environment where everyone can contribute to the community’s betterment, irrespective of their residency status.
While Havrot-Landry acknowledges the need for price adjustments, she still doesn’t feel welcomed by the mayor’s words.
“If you want to consider Hampstead as a welcoming community… you have to treat its visitors with the same respect. Lower the rates,” Havrot-Landry emphasized.
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