Future of the Listowel Memorial Arena

Background:

In early 2018, a Request for Proposal (RFP) was issued by North Perth's Recreation Advisory Committee to receive reuse proposals from third-party operators for the Listowel Memorial Arena. The hope was that proposals would include the delivery of community-based services for residents. Unfortunately, no proposals were received.

On December 17, 2018, North Perth Council received a report from staff on possible options to consider for the future of the Listowel Memorial Arena.

At the January 7th Council Meeting, North Perth Council directed the Recreation Advisory Committee to further investigate and collect public input on future options for the Listowel Memorial Arena.

The Recreation Advisory Committee will be hosting a Public Open House on Tuesday, June 11th from 5-8 pm at the Listowel Memorial Arena. Please join us to discuss the options for the facility and/or sites' future.

Options to Consider:

1. Outright Sale of the Building and Property

This would involve declaring the property surplus to municipal needs. Expenses for this option include potential soil testing, abatement, land surveys and legal fees. This option may cause concern for neighbouring facilities (e.g., baseball diamonds, Curling Club, Legion) in terms of parking needs.

Cost Factor: This may be a no or low-cost option
Net Cost Estimate: $0.00

2. Building Demolition and Sale of a Portion of the Property

The facility could be demolished, which would allow for residential lot development along the easterly end facing Elm Ave. N. Parking could be established at the western end of the property to serve the Curling Club, Legion and baseball diamonds. A Memorial Garden could be developed between the parking area and Elm Ave. properties in recognition of the tragic 1959 arena collapse. Expenses for this option would include building demolition, soil testing, abatement, land surveys, legal fees, parking lot and Memorial Garden development. Revenues would be realized through the land sale.

Cost Factor: This may be considered a low-cost option
Net Cost Estimate: $160,000 - $220,000
Annual Operating Cost Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000

3. Maintain the Facility for Municipal and Community Programs and Events

The Municipality could continue to maintain the facility and grounds for various recreation programs and events. The facility could also be used by other groups and clubs on a rental basis for their program needs and events. Annual Operating Expenses for this option would include hydro, gas, insurance, water, facility personnel, building/equipment repairs and maintenance, grounds maintenance/snow removal and waste removal. Multiple outstanding Capital Projects may need to be addressed such as AODA accessibility issues, HVAC replacement, flooring, interior and exterior lighting replacement, fire alarm system, water heater replacement, exterior wall repairs, roof replacement/repairs, and interior/exterior door replacement. Future Capital Costs for parking lot refurbishment ($120,000) and dehumidifier replacement ($65,000) have not been included within the capital improvement estimates below. Revenues could be obtained through facility rental rates and program registration fees.

Cost Factor: This would be the highest cost option
Net Capital Improvement Cost Estimate: $900,000-$1,200,000
Annual Operating Cost Estimate: $60,000-$75,000

4. Use the Facility for Municipal Storage Needs

The facility could be left as is and utilized strictly for storage of municipal equipment. The building would not be heated and services such as water and gas would be disconnected. Some building maintenance costs would still be incurred for roof and minor building repairs.

Cost Factor: This would be a low-cost option
Net Cost Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000
Annual Operating Cost Estimate: $32,000 - $44,000

5. Building Demolition and Re-Purpose Property

The building could be demolished and the property used for items such as a site for swimming pool replacement, basketball courts, ball hockey rink, pickleball court, etc. A portion of the site could also be used for parking for the Curling Club, Ball Diamonds and Legion. Expenses for this option include building demolition, soil testing, abatement, and parking lot and Memorial Garden development. Annual operating expenses and revenues would vary based on future use selected for the site.

Cost Factor: This would be a medium cost option
Net Cost Estimate: $330,000 - $450,000 plus New Facility Capital Cost
Annual Operating Cost Estimate: $1,000 - $2,000