Referendum on $25-million Complex expansion
By Kyra Hoggan
Months of planning have left Castlegar and RDCK areas I and J with what looks to be a $25 million price tag for an expansion project at the Complex.
Jim Crockett, director of recreation, says the plans have not been made in a vaccum, but rather reflect a great deal of public feedback on recreation in the region. “Once we got the structural and architectural reports regarding the Pioneer Arena and the Complex, we started looking at what our options are,” he said, explaining that, while the Complex passed with flying colours, the Pioneer is past its effective structural lifespan. He said public input, ranging from simple suggestion boxes up to a comprehensive survey of residents of both the city and the two RDCK areas, identified areas of issue with Complex design, most of which could be addressed while finding an alternative to the ice sheet at the Pioneer Arena. “There were some definite shortcomings identified at the Complex, like the fitness centre being too small; that we don’t have any attractions for kids in the aquatic centre, that the seniors have outgrown their space here … the Complex is structurally very good. The issue is more about design.” He said the survey results indicate that recreation is a priority for area residents, and that existing facilities are being used and appreciated. “Eighty-five per cent of respondants were either satisfied or very satisfied with our facilities, while 81 per cent have used the Complex in the past year and 93 per cent of households with dependent children have used the Complex in the past year, most more than 25 times.” Councillor Kirk Duff, who also sits on the recreation commission, said the expansion project will offer something for residents of all ages and interests. “This plan will see improvements to pretty much every aspect – the aquatic centre, meeting rooms, the fitness area, and so on, including the second sheet of ice (near the Complex, to replace the Pioneer ice), of course,” he said, adding a steering committee comprised of non-elected residents was recently struck to advise and offer feedback on the expansion project. “The bylaw to authorize borrowing the $25 million has to go to the RDCK board meeting July 29 to allow for a November referendum,” he said. “Between now and the referendum, of course, we’ll have the usual public consultation processes to let everyone know what’s going on, and user groups are already being consulted regarding the design.” He also said the rec commission is hoping to offset the $25-million price tag for taxpayers through grant money. The Pioneer Arena, according to the current plan, will be torn down and the city has already been approached by the curling club to use a portion of the property for parking.
