Replacing the town’s ice-resurfacer could take a while longer to complete.
Bashaw town council is still hoping to purchase a new machine for the arena, however the $125,000 estimated cost remains a sticking point. That said, the town has received some positive comments from surrounding municipalities about contributing to the purchase.
The process began at council’s meeting Dec. 6 where a pair of motions were passed to request funds from the counties of Camrose and Lacombe.
The town is formally asking Camrose County for a $50,000 contribution, which would help pay 40 per cent of the cost, which CAO Theresa Fuller noted is more or less in line with the average number of county residents that annually use the arena.
“Because this is a capital request, they require a formal motion of council,” she noted.
“The worst thing they can do is say no, or turn around and tell us they can afford only this much. So, this is a start,” added Coun. Rosella Peterman.
Meanwhile, administration was given permission to proceed with a recreation support funding application to Lacombe County.
Fuller stated that county staff felt this would be the best way to proceed, as there is a policy in place where municipalities can receive funds. However, this would be the first application to come from a community not within the county boundaries.
Fuller said a small portion of Lacombe County residents do use the facility and the county also contributes funds to Bashaw through another policy, which may assist in having the application approved.
Tourist trade off
Council was less than impressed with how the Bashaw Area Recreation Board (BARB) went about getting the inaugural artist Christmas market operational at the Bashaw Cultural Centre — formerly knows as the tourist booth.
However, the market which started Nov. 30 and goes until Dec. 22 will be allowed to run its course.
Fuller explained the town expressed concerns to BARB when posters promoting the market came out, which was quickly followed with a letter from BARB requesting council provide permission for use of the facility. BARB also acknowledged it was a bit over-zealous in agreeing with the local artists on the market idea without first checking into things.
BARB’s lease for the facility is from May to September, but town administration allowed the market to continue until Dec. 7, pending the result of council’s decision.
Fuller noted the biggest concern is the increased operational costs — from baseboard heating units and possible water use— which is being offset by BARB paying $20 per day to use. BARB also indicated it would cover any power cost over the amount they are paying.
“The benefit though is that the site is being used for local artisan exposure and opportunities, but the disadvantage is there is the increased electrical cost.”
Meanwhile, Peterman along with Coun. Lynn Schultz and Rob McDonald expressed their disappointment with the situation.
“Besides the power, I have a bit of a problem. You don’t go and make all the arrangements and then ask permission,” stated Peterman.
Administration was also asked to revisit the lease with BARB in the new year.
jordie.dwyer@ponokanews.com
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