Posted on 12/1/2015 by Pete McIntyre 107.5 KISSFM
The three year process to add a new arena at Kal Tire Place is getting underway. The city of Vernon, which owns the 14 year old facility, is taking the lead role, with the first step to determine the best way to build it, including hiring a project manager, or using a design-build team. Recreation Services Director Doug Ross says the public will have a chance at input, later in the process. "Once we have an architect in place, there will be a public consultation that will be done with work shops, open houses and user group meetings," Ross tells Kiss FM. Ross says the facility has to be financially-feasible but with the amenities user groups are looking for. The recent referendum allows for up to 13.2 million dollars to be borrowed for the project, but Ross says corporate and other donations could also be used. "We are probably going to be looking for all kinds of funding opportunities, whether it be through sponsorship or through grants." Ross says most of the people he's spoken with are pleased the referendum passed, although he says there may still be some dissent. "We held the referendum and the community spoke loud and clear I think. At each of the polling stations, the approval rate was between 55 and 58%, so that speaks volumes for the people that did get out and vote." Ross says they are willing to work with the Vernon Farmers Market on any concerns they have about their site. "We've always expressed our willingness to work with the Farmers market to make sure they can continue to operate," adds Ross. On Saturday, voters gave 56% support for the regional district to borrow 13.2 million dollars to add a second ice sheet at Kal Tire Place, which is expected to take 3 years to complete.
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