Local hockey and skating organizations are thrilled with a decision from Owen Sound City Council.
The proposed new recreation centre will include a double ice pad.
At last night’s meeting — Council voted unanimously to include two ice rinks in their application to the Canada Build Fund for the proposed recreation centre.
After a presentation from city staff, the total estimated cost of the facility is just over 32 million dollars.
Mayor Ruth Lovell Stanners says if the application is approved – 2/3rd’s of the overall cost will be funded by Federal and Provincial Governments.
The final 3rd of the overall cost will be financed by the City, the Family Y through fundraising and the various user groups.
The maximum city contribution is estimated at 5.9 million dollars.
Lovell Stanners says 1/3 of the arena portion will be covered by the city without input from other municipalities
She adds there will be an opportunity for anyone to allot money to the ice pads and expects to see a substantial amount raised.
Staff reports show the city debenture for the rec centre would peak in 2012 and return to 2009 levels in the next two to four years.
Lovell Stanners says there is a huge emphasis on the fact that this project is to stimulate our economy.
She says it will provide jobs to local contractors and trades people.
Denise Reid, an Owen Sound Skating Club representative says she is very excited to see the double ice rink because not all user groups are being accommodated with the current ice surfaces.
Reid says many organizations, including the Skating Club were having to spend money to use arenas outside of Owen Sound.
The proposed centre will include two ice pads and a health and fitness component with a swimming pool, gym and walking track.
City staff will have until midnight on Friday to apply for the Canada Build Fund.