The Clancy Richard Arena, a community hub, is in dire need of repairs due to aging infrastructure, safety concerns, and an outdated ice plant. Crumbling concrete, a floor that has exceeded its 50-year lifespan, and numerous building code violations have created an urgent need for upgrades to keep the facility operational. However, addressing these issued could cost the town of St. Paul approximately $4.1 million.
During an October 5 council meeting, discussions were held about the financial challenges of the project. Councillor Norm Noel made a motion to move forward with the application, while councillor Nathan Taylor raised concerns about the substantial increase in projected costs. Initially, the arena’s capital budget had earmarked $1.8 million for repairs to the ice plant and floorboards. However, a recent update revealed that just upgrading the ice plant alone would cost $1.8 million, excluding other necessary repairs.
The total cost for the full repair project is estimated at $9.95 million. In 2022, the town applied for the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Federal Funding program to cover up to 80 percent of eligible expenses, but the application was unsuccessful. The town is now working with Associated Engineering to resubmit the grant application, enhancing it by proposing energy-efficient upgrades such as a solar array capable of generating up to 149 kilowatts of power.
If successful, the GICB grant could provide up to $8 million, leaving the town responsible for the remaining $2 million, along with a 30 percent contingency to account for potential unforeseen costs – bringing the town’s potential contribution to $4.1 million.
Taylor expressed support for the grant application but emphasized the need for further discussions before committing to such a large debt. He questioned whether the proposed green upgrades would lead to long-term cost savings, particularly in light of other financial priorities like underground sewer repairs.
CAO Steven Jeffery also noted that upgrades and repairs to extend the arena’s lifespan, including fixing radiant heaters and bleachers, could amount to nearly $3 million. “What GICB does, is it gives us access to more dollars,” he explained, adding that the grant requires projects to meet criteria like inclusivity and energy efficiency.
Coun. Ron Boisvert echoed concerns, asking how the town’s finances would be impacted by an additional $4.1 million in debt. Taylor noted that while the town pays off $1.1 million in debt annually, adding more would stretch the budget significantly.
Despite concerns, council directed administration to proceed with the grant application. They also discussed the possibility of engaging with the public in the future to gather input on the arena’s future and the necessary repairs. The outcome of the grant application will be a critical factor in determining whether the repairs move forward.
