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Local governments in the South Okanagan are teaming up to study the feasibility of building an aquatic centre in the area.

The towns of Oliver and Osoyoos have long discussed the idea of an indoor pool to service both communities, but now, the Osoyoos Indian Band and RDOS have come on board.

The Town of Oliver is submitting a $100,000 grant application on behalf of the local governments to fund a study into development and operation of a shared facility.

“An indoor public pool continues to be a high priority for many local Osoyoos residents,” said Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff. “Our Community Services review showed that this issue is top of the list for families.  

“But since the cost of a pool and the ongoing cost for operating a pool is steep and could be difficult to manage for any single municipality, I am pleased that our local governments are looking to cooperate on a feasibility study.”

Oliver Mayor Ron Hovanes said the conversation “is very early,” but still exciting.

The grant would be distributed through province’s rural dividend fund, sets aside money for communities smaller than 25,000.

The local governments will be creating a steering committee in the coming months to manage the grant and study.