Saskatoon city council backs new arena, increases taxi fees

Saskatoon city council is moving ahead with plans to support a new arena for the University of Saskatchewan (U of S).

It was one of several items on the agenda at city hall on Thursday.

Council has approved a contribution agreement for a proposed arena to replace the aging Rutherford Rink at the U of S.

READ MORE: University asking city for $1M to help build twin-rink facility

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The agreement involves a one-million dollar capital investment in a twin-pad arena south of the Saskatoon Field House.

Council also signed on for plans to rid the Mendel building of asbestos at a cost of $700,000, which will set back construction at the Children’s Discovery Museum by about five months.

READ MORE: Asbestos at Mendel building delays renovations for Children’s Discovery Museum

Meanwhile, the cost to take a cab is set to increase by about six percent on Aug. 1.

Users can also be charged an optional debit transaction fee of up to 90 cents.

READ MORE: Taxi rates could be on the rise in Saskatoon

City council is also endorsing Prairieland Park’s plans for a $15-million expansion.

Council will issue a letter of support for funding from the provincial and federal governments.

READ MORE: Saskatoon’s Prairieland Park planning expansion

Ryan Kessler contributed to this report.