Ground was officially broken on the site of the new Cold Lake Community Event Arena Oct. 6. Political figures and industry officials from the area were in attendance for the ceremony, speeches and barbeque.
Mayor of Cold Lake Craig Copeland was happy with the turnout and the funding provided by Imperial Oil, which secures the naming rights to the centre. "It's a big day today, with Imperial Oil coming on board and providing $1 million for the event centre," said Copeland.
Copeland is excited for both city and MD residents, as construction begins on the facility. "We draw from all over the area...this will be an added feature in the community that we desperately needed."
However, Copeland explained that they are still several million dollars short of what they need to fund construction. The City of Cold Lake is still looking to three partners who have not yet come on board to help fund the centre. Those potential partners include the federal government, the provincial government and the MD of Bonnyville. Copeland added he was "very optimistic" that the MD would come on board.
Mayor of Bonnyville Ernie Isley echoed Copeland's optimism. "I have no doubt the MD will have a roll in this...it may not be the roll the city hopes they play." Isley sees the new centre as a plus for the entire area. "I'm glad to see they are finally building this...it will give the Jr. B and minor hockey a great new facility."
As for the MD of Bonnyville's take on funding the centre, Reeve Ed Rondeau said the matter would be discussed at the next budget meeting, following elections on Oct. 18.
