The referendum on the Summerland Recreation Centre is over, the votes have been counted and the proposed facility will not go ahead.
Voters had been asked whether they supported the borrowing of up to $50 million for the construction of a new facility to replace the Summerland Aquatic and Fitness Centre.
The unofficial results, presented after polls had closed on the evening of Nov. 4, showed 1,943 in favour and 2,682 opposed to the borrowing.
The question worded as a simple and clear yes or no vote, but the decision was anything but simple. Many voters took time to examine the issue and to consider the effects of each possible outcome. The results showed what the voting public wanted.
Opinions will differ on whether the referendum decision will be good or bad for the community. In the weeks leading up to the Nov. 4 referendum, Summerland voters had voiced strong opinions on the pool proposal. Some believed the concept was a necessity, others saw it as an unaffordable luxury and some questioned whether the community would be better served with building a smaller facility or retrofitting the existing pool complex.
In addition, some may ask if the results would have been different if a $25 million grant application had come through before voting began. Others will wonder if a greater voter turnout would have produced different results.
However, in the end it is pointless to revisit the Nov. 4 referendum. The results tell the story and the decision must be respected. Vote counts show the wishes of the public.
At the same time, voters do not speak with a united voice. Not everyone got the outcome they wanted.
The referendum shows the wishes of the majority of those who voted. Those wishes must be honoured.
Whether someone agrees or disagrees with the direction shown in the Nov. 4 referendum, the choice has been made.
It is time to move on and consider the next steps for the community.
— Black Press