The Lautoka City Council has announced plans to engage a new contractor to complete the contentious public swimming pool project by March next year. Council CEO Mohammed Khan confirmed the receipt of $5.5 million from the $12.6 million pledged by the government for the initiative, and highlighted that the council had additionally invested $1,461,399.95 from its own funds to keep the project ongoing.
Mr. Khan noted that approximately 50 percent of the budget had been utilized as of the end of 2019 and assured that all payments made between 2017 and 2019 were properly audited. The delays stemmed from the previous contractor departing from the site in September 2019, despite contractual obligations to continue work regardless of payment delays.
The council is currently in the re-design phase of the project, where a new project manager has been appointed, and redesign efforts for civil works, electrical systems, and hydraulics have commenced. Mr. Khan emphasized that grant-funded projects like this one typically involve payments that are released based on verified progress rather than upfront disbursements.
The situation reflects ongoing financial challenges as highlighted by former council horticulturalist Shri Charan, who raised alarms regarding alleged “missing” funds and delays in government disbursement. Community sentiments have been mixed, with residents expressing frustration over the prolonged process yet holding onto the hope that with new management and redefined governance strategies, the project can finally reach fruition.
This renewed commitment to complete the pool is not only viewed as a recreational enhancement for the community but also has the potential to positively impact local businesses by attracting events. The anticipation surrounding the facility’s opening symbolizes a step toward revitalizing Lautoka’s public infrastructure and fostering community well-being.
Overall, the council’s initiatives to finalize contractual agreements and improve management practices signal a hopeful outlook for better governance and efficient project execution in the future.
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