Trenton, Nova Scotia

Town Council Announces Intention to Close Outdoor Pool

TRENTON, NS – June 1, 2026 –Town Council wishes to inform residents that it has directed the Chief Administrative Officer to address current fiscal challenges in this year’s budget by removing future funding for the outdoor pool. Council will consider the draft budget in the upcoming weeks, and if passed, the outdoor pool will be closed permanently.

In considering anticipated future costs, Council determined that continuing to operate the outdoor pool would place significant pressure on municipal finances and would ultimately require property tax increases.

“It’s incredibly challenging to operate an aging, seasonal asset like this,” said Mayor Dove. “Weather can impact operations and climate impacts, like the threat of fire season impacting the park opening, are all considerations we must factor in. Even with excellent weather and maximized operational hours, the projected costs of the pool would be over $50,000 for a 10-week facility, which is simply not feasible without a tax rate increase, and Council is not comfortable doing that.”

Council believes it is important to take proactive steps now to help keep taxes affordable for residents, while ensuring the Town can continue delivering essential municipal services in a financially sustainable manner.

“Council recognizes the outdoor pool has served generations of families and appreciates the community connections it has provided over the years. We do not want this to be seen as taking something away from our town, but rather Council making a fiscally-responsible decision in the best interests of our taxpayers. We need to balance delivering recreation services with ensuring long-term fiscal sustainability,” said Dove. “We look forward to hearing from residents on their ideas for alternative uses of the space as we move forward.”

Residents and visitors are encouraged to continue to use the fully accessible splash pad located at the park and others in Pictou and Westville, and to enjoy the pool facilities and programming year round at the two Pictou County YMCA Aquatic facilities.

TOWN OF TRENTON NOTICE (2026-06-03)

Town Council Clarifies Status of Outdoor Pool; Invites Proposals to Save Facility

TRENTON, NS – June 3, 2026 – Trenton Town Council wishes to clarify for residents that a final budget decision has not been made regarding the proposed closure of the outdoor pool. A recent press release was to inform residents that after an initial review of Town finances, Council was moving in the direction of closing the pool to balance the budget, without raising taxes.

Given that Town Council has heard concern from the public regrading the outdoor pool, before any final decision is made during the upcoming budget deliberations, Council will be inviting innovative proposals or partnerships from individuals, community groups and local organizations aimed at keeping the pool operational.

Staff are currently compiling an outline of pool expenses for anyone that would like to propose an alternative solution. An announcement of the background information and the proposal submission process will be forthcoming in the near future.

"We have heard the community's passion for our outdoor pool and we are listening," says Mayor Dove. "Budget discussions require us to look at every line item, but no final decisions have been made. We know how much this facility means to families and we want to give our community every opportunity to collaborate with us on a viable solution to keep the pool open."


Media Contact:
Gabryel Joseph
Chief Administrative Officer
Town of Trenton