As questions mount over the proposed Lloydminster Place events centre, the mayor is encouraging residents to join the conversation and further the discussion.
Gerald Aalbers is noting the views raised especially with regard to funding the multi-million dollar build to replace the ageing Centennial Civic Centre rink and auditorium.
“When we brought this forward, the financial position in the province was a little different than it is today and certainly we will be discussing that with leadership candidates going into the premier’s chair (Alberta), and as well hopefully the new premier when they are elected. So I will be continually talking to the community about fundraising and sponsorship opportunities. There’s a lot of discussion. People have questions. Please approach city council. Members of administration will be more than glad to answer those questions.”
Aalbers addressed the issue of where the money is going to come from for the events centre that’s estimated to cost upwards of $50 million.
“We don’t have a lot of money. We certainly don’t have a lot of money. We will have to borrow some money. And you know what’s happening right now; that’s going to be discussed very soon, where we are at with borrowing money and what position we have to take to capture ourselves in the best way we can.”
He referenced the city’s grant funding sources.
“We have a grant application out for $37 million. We are continuously talking to Saskatchewan and the federal government about that application and we are also talking to the Alberta government.”
He emphasized again that expert findings have indicated the lifespan of the Civic Centre is “two to four years” and hence the need to find a replacement facility.
