VERNON – Several ice rink user groups in Vernon have appointed an advocate to “publicize the facts” about the proposal for a new arena.
The Regional District of North Okanagan is seeking taxpayer approval through a referendum to borrow $13.25 million to build the second rink next to the Kal Tire Place arena.
Vernon chiropractor, Cameron Grant, is the spokesperson for groups including minor hockey, figure skating, ringette and lacrosse.
“I don’t want to convince people that want to vote ‘no’ and don’t want their taxes to increase. I’m not trying to convince them,” says Grant. “I just want the people who are undecided, or don’t have the facts, I want to get them the facts.”
Vernon’s director of recreation services, Doug Ross, says an engineering assessment report indicates it would cost about $5 million to keep the Civic Arena operational beyond five years.
“For us to put that kind of money into a facility that’s already approaching 80 years of age just isn’t cost effective,” says Ross.
Cameron Grant is hoping Vernon area voters agree.
“The ‘yes’ vote has to get out and vote. If they think this is going to be a slam-dunk, it’s not. If you chose apathy over getting out and voting, this rink is not going to go,” says Grant.
The referendum voting is Saturday, November 28th.
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