Highlights of Phase 2

Phase 2, the development of an aquatic centre, fieldhouse/gym, and theatre, has been ongoing for some years due to the interruption of the fire. The past few months have seen a lot work completed to determine what Kindersley needs and what we can afford. On June 18 we received a preview of the final report to be submitted by Group 2. What I am sharing below are some of the highlights based on Group 2's presentation.

Kindersley Aquatic Centre: an aging facility

·         Methodology: A thorough process was undertaken to hear as many groups as possible and collect and analyze as much quality data as was reasonable.

·         Partnerships: Possible partners include: Great PlainsCollege and Sun West School Division.

·         Strategic Alignment: a multiuse facility aligns with the Town’s strategic direction.

·         Demographics: we have slow and steady population growth which affects affordability.

·         Comparative: Kindersley is the only community in SK without an aquatics centre.

·         Existing Infrastructure: relevant facilities are aging and some need decommissioning

 

·         Recreation Trends: multiuse facilities are part of a national trend becoming the hub of a community.

·         Existing Facilities in WCS: no other community in West Central Saskatchewan offers the scope and services proposed in the new facility.

·         Stakeholders: the organizations view the facilities as much needed.

·         The groups expect increased participation in their organizations even though some are experiencing low attendance at this time.

·         Needs Assessment Conclusion Statement

"Analysis suggests that strong demand exists for the proposed multi-purpose facility from stakeholders and residents who participated in the consultation process. The strongest demand is for the aquatics centre followed by the banquet facility/gymnasium and the theatre

Enthusiasm for the project is high, however all facility developments must consider that the Town and region has a relatively low population which will affect participant numbers and revenue generation."

·         The Money Needed

·         Option A, including Great Plains College: $65.5 million without Great Plains College $55.7 million

·         Aquatic Centre annual operations budget: $500,101

·         Banquet/Gym/Theatre annual operations budget: $283,845

·         Total Operating Budget: $783,946

·         Property Tax Increase Needed with Current Tax Base: 16.5%

·         Option B, including Great Plains College: $51.3 million without Great Plains College $45.1 million

·         Aquatic Centre annual operations budget: $452,254

·         Banquet/Gym/Theatre annual operations budget: $183,336

·         Total Operating Budget: $635,590

·         Property Tax Increase Needed with Current Tax Base: 13.5%

·         Option C (pool only): $17.7 million

·         Total Operating Budget: $452,254

·         Property Tax Increase Needed with Current Tax Base: 9.5%

·         Some Caveats because these costs were not included:

·         Borrowing costs

·         Equipment costs (minor facility lifecycle contribution)

·         Major future upgrades (major facility lifecycle contribution)

·         Corporate overheard (Town admin costs)

·         Ramp up costs (new hirings prior to opening and it takes 3 years to reach revenue targets)

These are some of the highlights. There is a strong consensus among the participating groups that the facility should be build according to Option A with no phased building plans.

 

Here is how this may affect the Town:

·         Increase assets from ~$90 million to ~$155 million;

·         Increase operations from ~$14 million to ~$14.6 million;

·         Increase quality of life;

·         Increase programs offered by both Sun West School Division, Great Plains College and our local arts, culture, civic, and recreation organizations;

·         Increase Kindersley’s attractiveness to employers and employees;

·         Enhance Kindersley as a destination;

 

We are exhausting every opportunity to responsibly and sustainably secure partners and funding to move this project ahead as soon as is reasonably possible. Here are some of the initiatives we are undertaking:

·         seeking regional partners;

·         seeking partnerships at other levels of government;

·         seeking private partners;

·         proposed the development of an independent foundation to oversee fundraising, it may be prudent to consider employing a full time fundraiser;

·         developing a plan to ensure Kindersley is united behind this ambitious project;

·         reviewing the Town’s organizational effectiveness,

·         and looking for more stones to overturn to make this real.

 

If you have any questions or comments please email me.