The Peace River Regional District says hard choices are needed on a proposed North Peace Leisure Facility, and are inviting residents to provide input on the potential mix of amenities and cost during a series of online and in-person workshops in April.
“Through public engagement to date, we’ve learned there is community support for a new multi-use facility,” said Brad Sperling, PRRD Board Chair and Vice-Chair of the facility's Steering Committee, in a press release. “Because the estimated costs to provide these amenities are higher than anticipated due to inflation and unprecedented increases in the construction market, we’re now seeking input on the balance between services and affordability.”
The PRRD, the City of Fort St. John and the District of Taylor have been developing plans to replace the aging North Peace Leisure Pool with the proposed facility.
Four options were developed based on priorities identified by residents, one option has been dropped from consideration due to cost, and the other three options include a mix of aquatic and indoor recreation amenities.
“We heard loud and clear from our communities that we need a new facility that will serve both current and future residents,” said Fort St. John Coun. Trevor Bolin, Fort St. John Councillor, serving as a member of the Steering Committee. “A multi-use facility not only offers our communities a great way to have fun all year round, it also helps attract residents and businesses, supports local workforce recruitment and contributes to property values.”
The April workshops aim to help determine a balance between the cost and the amenities desired by residents from PRRD Areas B and C, City of Fort St. John and District of Taylor. Following the workshops, results will be compiled and presented at upcoming public open houses.
The project also requires borrowing money, with voter approval through a referendum, and each jurisdiction, the PRRD, Fort St. John, and Taylor, all have a say in whether the project moves ahead.
The workshop schedule can be found at haveyoursay.prrd.bc.ca/nplf. - residents can register for the workshops at prrd.eventbrite.com.
You can read the full press release below:
Hard Choices Needed on Proposed North Peace Leisure Facility by Tom Summer on Scribd
