New boiler approved for recreation complex

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star Published: December 09, 2012 1:00 AM
More money is being pumped into a critical part of Greater Vernon’s recreational infrastructure. The Regional District of North Okanagan is taking $64,000 from reserves to replace the boiler and hot water tank at the Vernon Recreation Complex. “Failure to do that may jeopardize operations,” said David Sewell, general manager of finance. Replacement was scheduled for next year but the timeline has been expedited because of the condition of the aging system. The total bill for the boiler and hot water tank is about $90,000 but a grant from Fortis is expected. This project comes at the same time that repairs at the recreation complex continue to move ahead. The original dehumidifier was undersized when the pool was expanded in 1993. Ultimately, the unit was shut off because of expensive repairs needed to keep it running, but that led to roof and wall damage in the pool area. Repairs are likely to cost around $1.7 million. There was also a problem with the heat lines in the auditorium and Dogwood Gym, which date back to the mid-1960s. New heating lines are in place and the dehumidifier is being designed. Repairs to the roof and walls will occur in the spring. Director Mike Macnabb is not concerned about the overall integrity of the recreation complex. “All mechanical systems have a finite life. As you go forward, there is continual replacement,” he said of the boiler and hot water tank.