Last evening, Council approved a staff recommendation to seek 50 per cent funding toward air handling equipment and remediation of the gym floor at Collins Hall.
The replacements and refurbishment are estimated to cost $750,000, Director of Recreation and Culture, Karilyn Kluke, informed the council, “meaning, [the grant] could secure up to $375,000 from this fund.”
The opportunity is from the Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund (CSRIF), administered by the provincial government.
Commenting that, “The facility is more than just a building,“ Kluke continued, "the Collins Hall has been one of the most resilient and versatile facilities in Elliot Lake,” noting it is a sports, recreation, events, and performing arts space.
Councillor Luc Morrissette inquired about the actual energy cost savings anticipated. Special Projects Manager, Bill Goulding noted that City will work with Johnson Controls International (JCI) on the specifications.
JCI provides a performance guarantee. “They will guarantee the amount of realized energy in dollars. If we don’t see that, we can go back to JCI,” Goulding said.
Councillor Charles Flintoff described the facility as "definitely a very important part of the city and it does need air-conditioning. Everybody’s been in there in the summer, and it can get pretty hot.”
Flintoff also inquired about a provision allowing for an up to 70 per cent grant for communities with a population of under 20,000.
The director advised the higher grant amount will be pursued. There are “no guarantees, but we could be eligible up to 70 per cent.”
“The gymnasium floor refurbishment is required due to damage and outdated court lines. The upgrading of this will ensure safety and adapt the space for new sports … pickleball, for example,” Kluke said.
If successful, the grant monies will pay for new air handling equipment and remediation of the gym floor.
The improvements planned for Collins Hall also include new LED lighting.
Council approved the staff recommendation to apply for the grant and that "the City's contribution be drawn from the Building and Facilities reserve."