Swimming is one of the most popular sports in a community. Most of us have our kids registered in a swimming program of some sort, either through a Red Cross program or through a competitive club. Pools are such a rare commodity that most growing cities like Richmond Hill will face waiting list problems if proper planning is not done. It is estimated that a 25 meter 6 lane pool serve a population of 40,000. Richmond Hill has four 25 meters 6 lane pools (Richvale, Centennial, Elgin West and Bayview Hill). Richmond Hill population have reached 180 thousand and it is expected to continue at a similar growth as it has in the past few year, therefore, the population could reach 250 thousand within 10 years requiring 6 pools to properly serve the population. Richmond Hill is planning to build one of its last pools in Oak Ridges, if the Town of Richmond Hill builds this pool with 8 lanes instead of 6 it will buy the town 20% more capacity in this pool enabling it to support 50000 residents and giving Richmond hill extra few years before having to deal with wait list issues, a 50 meter pool will give us 10 additional years. A larger competitive facility will serve the needs of recreational users as well as various athletic groups, thereby better supporting the social well being of the community as a whole. Athletic groups will use this type of facility in typical \"dark\" hours increasing operating revenues. A competitive facility will also allow for the hosting of events and provide business opportunities for the local hospitality industry. Please sign this petition to help us influence the town of Richmond Hill to reconsider its plan and to build an 8 lane competitive pool.