The Lloydminster Golf and Curling Centre will need to replace its compressor in order for residents to curl for the upcoming season.
The Technical Safety Authority of Saskatchewan has set up new regulations for venting ammonia gas outside the building. Mayor Gerald Aalbers says ammonia is used in the artificial ice plants that are in the community and is a very dangerous gas.
“TSASK the governing administrative body in Saskatchewan has advised us that there has to be some modifications made for us to get our operating certificate. In essence, they’ve told us you either do it or we won’t have artificial ice in the curling rink and you won’t curl this winter.”
The replacement is valued at $42,394 and $17,394 has been moved from a capital reserve to cover the costs of the project, which was originally valued at $25,000. Aalbers says the upgrade is necessary for the safety of the workers in the facility, as well as continuing to offer recreation.
“We operate a curling club and it serves youth, adults and seniors who want to have curling ice. Yes, we had to take some money out of the reserve to deal with that. It’s work that’s well done, it’ll add value to the community and it’ll serve us overall in the longterm picture.”
