| Vol. 2 No. 6 | page 2 | Feb. 6, 1953 |
The Civilian Welfare Council is to be commended for their practical approach to the difficult job of planning the future welfare program for Igloo. They placed all the issues before the depot employees and, thus, by popular vote they not only learned what Igloo people preferred but they obtained many excellent suggestions for future guidance.
Unknown to the Council, however, were two issues that could not be settled by the ballot; the roller skating rink and the project for covering the swimming pool to make it usable all year.
It was apparently assumed that the old Mess Hall (building 1400) would be made available for roller skating. However, the Council obviously didn't know that a decision had been made several months ago to use this building as a combination post engineer warehouse, heating shop, and housing warehouse. While it is true that the Mess Hall was used for recreational purposes during a period of reduced activities, the situation has changed considerably and building space is currently unusually critical. It is certainly agreed that roller skating would be an excellent addition to our recreational facilities but the possibiliy of accquiring a suitable building is extremely remote at this time.
The swimming pool issue involves a slightly different problem. This too, sounds like a fine idea untl you examine the probable cost of such a project. The Post Engineer estimates that a suitable structure with heating and other necessary utilities would probably cost from $50,000 to $75,000.
A look at the Welfare budget quickly reveals that a project of such scope is completely beyond their financil capabitities. What about using appropriated funds? There again, you have the matter of "first things first". Appropriated funds for essential maintenance, repair, additions, etc., are critically short. There are several projects carrying high priorities for which we have not been able to obtain money. It would be futile to consider, even for a moment, the possibility that we could justify spending this kind of money for a covered swimming pool when existing buildings and utilities are in need of extensive repairs.
Notwithstanding the above, we have a fine welfare and recreational program at Igloo and we could be in worse shape. Furthermore, the Council is showing considerable enthusiansm and there is little doubt that the program will be constantly improved within the limits of financial resources.
Don't forget where your Civilian Welfare money comes from. The more you spend at Igloo the more money in your welfare fund. Almost three and one-quarter cents of every dollar you spend in Igloo is returned to your welfare fund by the Concessionaire.
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