The Roanoke Times | File August

Terry Caldwell, Christiansburg's director of aquatics, will work with an advisory commission to establish schedules and policies of operation for the new aquatics center.

The town of Christiansburg plans to form an advisory commission to aid in the planning for the new aquatics center expected to open this spring.

The commission will be made up of five members who will work with Terry Caldwell, the town's director of aquatics, to establish schedules and policies of operation for the center. Caldwell said she welcomes the assistance.

"It's a very positive force for myself and my staff," Caldwell said Monday afternoon.

She said she isn't yet certain how commission members will be chosen but would like to see people with a background in aquatics and a "sincere commitment to aquatics and its presence in the town."

She said the commission is also is an opportunity to promote community involvement in the facility, allowing residents an avenue to address government officials with any thoughts or concerns regarding the center.

Last month, Mayor Richard Ballengee released a statement encouraging town residents to "have ownership" in the aquatics center by making donations to help offset some of the costs.

Caldwell said she thinks the formation of an advisory commission will also help residents feel included in the process of building the $14.5 million facility.

"It opens it up for the public to address the government with decisions being made at that level," Caldwell said.

A town council member yet to be named will also serve as a liaison to the commission.

Positions on the Aquatic Center Advisory Commission are volunteer. Anyone interested in applying should submit a letter of interest by Nov. 30 to the office of the mayor.