Chris Clegg
South Peace News
McLennan town council is looking for ways to lessen the financial pressure while decommissioning the ammonia plant at the H.W. Fish arena.
With the arena not in use for years, council has looked into the sale of the building. To prepare for any possible sale, however, the ammonia plant must be taken out of order.
CAO Lorraine Willier told council at its June 9 meeting it was not the plant that was the main issue, but the lines under the cement pad which carried the ammonia to freeze the ice.
Council did budget $15,000 this year to decommission the plant but the estimated figure, which was not disclosed, was much higher.
Councillor Margaret Jacob asked if there were grants available to do the work.
“I really don’t know,” replied Willier.
“If you can find a grant, that would be great.”
The 33-year-old plant came from High Prairie. Its expected lifespan is 25 years so selling the plant itself is virtually impossible.
Given the high cost, Mayor Jason Doris suggested perhaps the work could be done in stages so the financial hit is “not such a big hit in one year” to council.
“I had hoped it wouldn’t be that much,” Doris said referring to the cost.
Council directed Willier to ask the company if the work could be completed in stages.