Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim is calling for the removal of the advance booking system at Kitsilano Pool. He believes the current system, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, is creating unnecessary problems for residents who want simple, drop-in access to one of the city’s most loved outdoor pools.
In a statement shared on social media on July 21, Sim expressed frustration with the current policy. He said Kits Pool should be “open and accessible to everyone, all the time — no complicated booking system, no barriers.” He also sent a letter to the park board commissioners, urging them to act quickly and return the pool to its pre-pandemic operation style.
Sim said many locals just want to enjoy the pool the way they always have — “freely and spontaneously.” He believes that the current setup adds needless complexity and makes it harder for people to access a basic city service.
The mayor called for an urgent motion to scrap the advance booking system and reintroduce drop-in access. He stressed that public systems should be flexible and respond to real-life needs. “Government bodies need to be ready to adapt themselves when systems fail,” he said.
However, on Monday night, the motion was not passed. Instead, the issue was delayed until September 15. By that time, the pool will already be closed for the season. This means any changes would not take place until summer 2026.
Sim criticized the delay, saying it shows a lack of action from the park board. “Last night, the park board chose delay over action, and Vancouver residents are the ones paying the price,” he said.
He added that the people of Vancouver deserve better and promised to keep working with city staff to find a solution. His goal is to bring back easy, drop-in access for everyone.
The debate over Kits Pool access started earlier this month when long-time Vancouver resident Jody Vance shared her own experience. She had planned to use the pool but was told it was already “sold out” for the day. This led her to publicly question the need for continued restrictions and an online booking system, now that pandemic measures have eased.
Vance’s story resonated with many residents who have had similar experiences. The pool is a popular summer destination, especially when the weather is warm, and the current system has left some locals feeling excluded.
Many believe that a public pool should not require planning days in advance. They argue that residents should be able to make last-minute decisions to swim, especially during hot weather. The need to book in advance online also poses challenges for those who are not tech-savvy or do not have easy internet access.
While the advance booking system was first introduced to manage crowd size and support health measures during the pandemic, critics say it no longer serves a clear purpose. With most public spaces now back to regular operations, they question why Kits Pool continues to follow outdated rules.
Sim’s firm stance and public support may add pressure on the park board to reconsider its position. However, with changes unlikely before 2026, the debate over pool access is expected to continue.
For now, Vancouver residents who wish to swim at Kits Pool will still need to secure a spot online before showing up. But with growing demand for change, it remains to be seen how long the current system will last.
