LAURIE WEIR
Town council has endorsed a $10-million grant application for a future sport and recreation facility, though one councillor admitted he’s still unsure what exactly the final project will look like.
The application is being submitted to the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund – Stream 2, a provincial program aimed at supporting major new builds and transformative recreation infrastructure. If successful, the grant could cover up to 70 per cent of the cost of a project centred on the aging Youth Arena site.
“We’re casting a wide enough net to ensure that, whatever direction council ultimately takes — whether it’s retrofitting, rebuilding, or starting fresh — the funding will still apply,” said Stephanie Clark, the town’s director of community services, during the April 14 committee of the whole meeting.
Clark explained that while no final design has been approved, the application must be submitted now to avoid missing out on funding.
“We don’t need to decide tonight what we’re building,” she said. “But we do need council’s support to submit the application. This helps make future decisions easier and ensures we’re eligible for external funding, no matter which option is chosen.”
Some uncertainty
While council unanimously supported the motion, not all members were fully comfortable with the lack of detail.
“My hesitation is the same as it was with the feasibility report,” said Coun. Chris McGuire. “I still haven’t seen a business case or an updated record of what we need. I know we need a rink — we need a nice rink — but without that clearly in front of me, I don’t know what we’re committing to.”
Clark acknowledged those concerns, but emphasized the importance of getting in the queue for funding.
“If we don’t go forward, we don’t get the funding,” she said. “It doesn’t mean we have to use it, we can always turn it down. But I’d hate to turn down $10 million if the province wants to give it to us.”
Building smart for the future
Clark said staff are exploring green infrastructure and energy-efficient options to align with both the funding criteria and the town’s sustainability goals.
“We’re incorporating modern design-build thinking,” she said. “We want a facility that isn’t just functional, but one that reflects environmental responsibility and community priorities.”
The grant application could support a range of possibilities — from a new arena or field house to a fully redeveloped community sports hub. A final decision will come after further site analysis and community consultation.
“I’m manifesting that they’re giving us the money,” Clark added with a smile.
Council approved the recommendation and directed staff to proceed with submitting the application.