Growing concerns about the cost of renovations at the Markdale complex are being dismissed by Grey Highlands Mayor Brian Mullin.
Originally, the project was expected to cost 675 thousand dollars.
But Mullin says some changes or additions were made and the cost is likely to be about 900 thousand.
Grey Highlands received a 425 thousand dollar Community Adjustment fund grant for the work.
The project needs to be nearly complete by the end of March in order to qualify for the grant money.
The town set aside 375 thousand dollars and the Mayor says they hope to make up the difference thru fundraising in the community.
Mayor Mullin says there is plenty of support for the renovation work and he is confident the money will be raised.
Some of the work in the arena includes new flooring, benches in the change rooms, a new scoreboard and seating in the viewing area.