Centennial Arena in Elliot Lake has been closed since February while work was done to clear ice and snow from the roof.
But, there are ongoing challenges including the roof leaks and the arena truss structure is near the end of life, says city CAO, Daniel Gagnon.
Gagnon says the roof needs spraying to seal the leaks and other remedial work to try and extend the use of the building for another two years at least.
Council unanimously agreed hiring two companies looking for answers, and to have a structural assessment of the building completed at a cost of around $285,000.
The work has to be done quickly to see if the arena will be able to re-open for programming.