Centennial Arena is not out of the running as a possible location for a multi-use facility hub, but it is no longer the primary site.
Councillor Tammy Van Roon says the city can’t pursue funding without a final shovel ready site and a decision has to be made,
But she had concerns about possible leaching of the municipal arena property after learning that there has been ground contamination from an adjacent former gas station.
Council had chosen the arena as their primary site, but there are concerns that there could be environmental issues depending on the size of the footprint of the multi-use facility.
Mayor Dan Marchisella agreed saying there are multiple sites that can be considered.
However, it was pointed out the arena will remain on the short-list.
Council then passed a motion eliminating Centennial Arena as its primary site.
And still with the story, staff reported a record search had shown the contaminated area had been dug up and contaminated soil removed, but no clearance certificate could be found in the files dating back to 2004.
Councillor Connie Nykaforak strongly believes there should still be an environmental assessment carried out to make sure the adjacent site is rehabilitated and is not affecting the arena property.
Council agreed and the review will fall under the 2018 budget since there will be costs associated with carrying out the assessment.