The same architectural firm that worked on the failed 2018 referendum to add a new ice sheet in Castlegar has been retained for the latest version of the project.
According to Regional District of Central Kootenay communications co-ordinator Dan Elliott, HCMA Design will design the new facility based on recent public consultation. The company has offices in BC and Alberta.
HCMA is also helping the RDCK with its application for up to $7 million towards the project from the Strategic Priorities Fund, administered by the Union of BC Municipalities. The application is due Sept. 12.
In June, the RDCK board gave the go-ahead to prepare bylaws to allow the expansion of the Castlegar and District Community Complex, subject to a referendum to be voted on by residents in the City of Castlegar and electoral Area J.
That’s a change from two previous referenda, in which Area I residents were included. While city and Area J residents voted in favour, all three areas needed to say yes in order for the project to be approved. Surveys found Area I residents would likely oppose the rec centre expansion again if they were asked to take part.
No date for the referendum has been set, nor has a budget been announced. It all follows the closure of the Pioneer Arena, which is now being torn down.
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