Facilities Update

Here are some updates about some of the Town’s facilities.

Norman Ritchie Centre, September 24, 2013

The Norman Ritchie Centre has had some more challenges recently. At the end of August the sewer backed up resulting in damage. During the week of the 20^th of September the damage was repaired with insurance money and as of September 23^rd the facility is up and running. The only restriction is that the basement is off limits; you will notice a door blocking the way now. The issue with the NRC is how much money do we spend to keep it going until a new theatre facility is built? A new theatre could be here in 3 years it could be 8 years. I dislike spending good money after bad.

The pool needs more maintenance again. Late in the season the drain pump broke down and needs replacement. It doesn’t sound cheap. As well, there seems to be water leaking under the pool causing problems with the potential to do more damage. There are other wear and tear problems which can be expected from a building that is 39 years old. The pool has done well to last this long.

The rink has some changes. We have taken the epoxy off of part of the floor and ground and polished it. The result has been a pleasant change. Though the floor looks great there have been some concerns about slipperiness and staining. Over the winter the floor will be revaluated and we’ll see where it goes. You will notice some new faces around the rink, and some familiar ones resulting in the rink being almost fully staffed for the season. They are still looking for a student to work part-time.

Rats, yes it is true that rats have been active in and around town. Apparently the reason for this activity is due to dryness of the ground. With the dry conditions the rats are on the move looking for water. In this regard they are no different from you and I. The Town has stepped up its efforts to control the rats including bringing Poulian in more frequently. You can help by keeping your alley clean, garbage picked up, and dispersing standing water.