Council approved a plebiscite on the project at a special meeting Jan. 23.

Deputy Mayor Dean McMeekin holds a draft drawing of the proposed project. - Paul Bickford/NNSL photo

Hay River ratepayers will be asked to approve use of $1 million from the recreation reserve and borrow up to $4 million to finance the project.

No exact dates were discussed for the vote, although the project's timeline calls for it by March 10.

Construction would begin in May 2004 and an opening is envisioned for June 2005.

The proposed aquatic centre would include a five-lane, 25-metre lap pool with attached leisure bay and beach entry; a 30-person whirlpool; a 150-foot waterslide; a squash/racquetball court; renovation of the current pool into a fitness centre; and a steam room.

Dave MacDonald, the vice-chair of the recreation board, told council the proposed centre will help attract more people, such as diamond mine workers, to Hay River.

He also noted interest rates are at a four-decade low.

"This is the time for a capital expenditure."

MacDonald said the current pool has just about reached the end of its useful life. "If we don't do anything, we're going to lose a very valuable recreation facility in this town."

Mayor Duncan McNeill called the proposed aquatic centre an exciting project, and predicted the community would be proud of it.