Big things are happening in North Perth.
Let’s take a quick review of some of them:
• A ribbon-cutting ceremony at Atwood’s new sewer system took place recently. Officials call it one of the biggest, most significant projects to take place there. They also say it will encourage continued growth and development.
• Phase two of Perth Meadows senior housing complex is almost complete. After the project began in 1998, units are scheduled to be available next month.
• Sod was turned recently at the new Elma-Logan Recreation Complex in Monkton. This marked the first phase of an expansion made possible through grants and community fundraising.
• At its June 14 meeting, North Perth council members approved conceptual drawings for the proposed new arena in Listowel.
All these developments have at least two things in common: they signify growth, and they come with sizable price tags.
The new arena is certainly no exception. It could cost about $25 million when all is said and done. That’s for three phases of completion, with each phase completed as funds are available.
Millions and millions of dollars are worth a second look.
The current arena is aging, no argument there. It would cost an estimated $4 million to bring the facility up to standard.
That investment would also keep the current arena serviceable for another decade or more.
So what’s the smarter, more fiscally responsible option? Spend $4 million to keep us good to go for another 10 to 20 years? Or fork over the $25 million and start from scratch?
There are many who are quite enthusiastic about a brand new arena. It would be great to have a top-of-the-line facility for local and visiting families, teams and organizations. No doubt it would be put to good use with the many events and sports teams who utilize the space.
But can we afford it?
The first phase alone is expected to cost $12 million. That leaves two phases to go. What happens if we run out of money? What happens if the fundraising doesn’t come through? What if residents who’d originally planned to donate fall upon hard times and are no longer able to contribute?
About 6,200 recreation surveys were distributed this year. These surveys included questions about a new facility and what residents would like to see there. Only 765 of these surveys were returned. Just over 60 per cent of respondents said the community needed a new facility. One-third of surveyed respondents said they would make a capital donation.
When you break it down, that’s not enough on which to base a decision of this magnitude.
Bottom line is, if the money isn’t raised through grants or fundraising, the onus will fall on the taxpayers. That’s the last thing anyone wants.
We’d feel more comfortable with a clearer indication of what residents think about the new facility. Anyone who didn’t fill out a survey or offer input on the proposed new arena can do so by contacting the Municipality of North Perth office at 519-291-2950.
No one is doubting the generosity of North Perth residents or the ability of volunteers to fundraise. But considering we’re a small community, and communities everywhere are still feeling the effects of the recent economic crisis, it would be prudent to take extra care in this case.