A new performing arts facility or renovations to Genevieve Yates Memorial Theatre appear to be top priority for Lethbridge residents, at least according to numbers at City Hall on Monday night.
Over a dozen people voiced their support for the arts community, and capital projects enthusiasts believe are long overdue.
“(Lethbridge) is at almost 100,000 people,” said Brian Quinn. “We’re no longer a small community dependent on small community groups. We can offer the people of Lethbridge so much more.”
Upgrading the 46-year-old Yates would cost over $20-million under the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), which is a decade-long vision including three years of approved funding.
Nearly 40 different projects are on the table, with about a dozen major plans. (see inset)
Among the requests, a leisure centre in the range of $50-million to $125-million.
The city has already committed to (a twin arena/curling facility), what a better time to add a multi-purspose centre to that,” said Shobha George, who spoke on behalf of Play Local Lethbridge.
Various downtown projects will be debated, including a parking structure and reconstruction of 5 Street S.
“It would increase (size of) the sidewalks,” said Hunter Heggie, a downtown business owner. “More room (to walk), friendlier and more vibrant downtown.”
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While there are a number of options to be discussed, it’s likely only a small chunk of these community projects will be funded.
Once council gets past priorities, including completion of projects already approved, there is little money left to go around.
“$68-million in funding for $360-million worth of projects,” said Cory Wight, the city treasurer. “Only a pretty small portion will be able to be completed.”
There are others who say community groups should fund a large portion of their own projects.
“When you ask the question, ‘How much are you going to contribute?’, they don’t want to contribute (anything),” said Ken Ikle, a taxpayer watchdog. “That’s what bothers taxpayers.”
As for what’s in the CIP and what’s out, councillors will begin debate in early May.
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