How much was the referendum for and what was the original estimate for the
Multiplex?
The regional referendum that was approved by voters allows for borrowing of
$17,000,000. This is the only portion of the construction that will be funded
by property tax. The total preliminary estimate was $ 24.6 million with the
difference being funded by other levels of government and corporate and personal
donations.
Why has the cost estimate increased?
The actual cost of a project is only known after building plans are finalized
and tenders are received. A substantial increase in the cost of building
material including steel was expected to impact the project budget and thus
an increase from the original estimate was not unexpected. The project costs
came in at $34.6 million, including all fees, taxes and a contingency. The
difference between the actual cost and original estimate will be funded by
the one-time fund that was provided to the City as part of the new Fair Share
agreement.
Why is the new Fair Share agreement being used to assist with this project?
The new agreement included a one-time payment of $10 million dollars. The Province
provided this money over and above the annualized amount. It was intended
to allow communities in the North East to address their highest priority
projects. For us, that is the Multiplex. This does not come at the expense
of any other items that were already identified for completion in the next
ten years. In fact, all of these items will be funded earlier than originally
contemplated, as a result of the increase in quantum. The new M.O.U will
provide Dawson Creek over $155,000,000 in the next fifteen years. In contrast,
we had access to approximately $44,000,000 in the first thirteen years of
Fair Share.
Will other planned projects have to be put on hold because of the decision
to allocate the one-time Fair Share funding to the Multiplex?
No. The City’s five and ten year Capital plans will not affected by this
initiative. The annual funding received under the Fair Share has provided the
financing for the City’s capital projects since 1993. That mechanism
will continue for the life of the new agreement, which will remain in force
until 2020. The new agreement also provides significantly more dollars each
year, and our various capital priorities have been advanced accordingly.
What is the impact going to be on our taxes as a result of the Multiplex?
As a result of the infusion of Fair Share monies, the City has been able to
reduce property tax rates in twelve of the thirteen years since Fair Share
I, and held rates constant in the other year. In total, residential taxes
have declined 42.3% since the original Fair Share M.O.U. We fully expect
this trend to continue even as the Multiplex comes on-line.
Q. When will the Event Centre be open?
We are aiming for Spring 2008.
Q. What is the status of the hockey team?
We are still optimistic we will get a team, talks are ongoing.
Q. What will happen to the old pool?
The future of the current pool is unknown at this time; it will be de-commissioned until Council makes a decision.
Q. Is there going to be a concession at the Multiplex?
Yes, one in the Event Centre to be operated by Ovation Foods and one in the Aquatic Centre, operator to be determined.
Q. Are there going to be offices?
Yes.
Q. How long is the running track?
250 metres
Q. Is there a fitness centre? Who is going to run it?
Not at this time.
Q. Is there going to be a conference room or offices for rent?
Not at this time.
Q. Is there a schedule of events for the EnCana Centre?
To be announced.
Q. How do I get a job at the Multiplex?
If you wish to work at the swimming pool, you must apply to the City of Dawson Creek. If you wish to work at the Event Centre, you must apply to the management company, Global Spectrum Attention: Gunnar Fox, c/o City Hall 10105 12 A Street.
Q. Who do I contact to book an event or advertise at the Multiplex?
Contact Gunnar Fox, General Manager at 784-3640 or Ryan MacIvor, Assistant General Manager at 784-3637 to discuss future dates and events.
