The Prince George Chamber of Commerce is concerned about city council’s decision to borrow more than $22 million for repairs to the Prince George Aquatic Centre, in addition to nearly $15 million previously allocated for the same purpose.
The chamber suggests that this decision should undergo further analysis before proceeding.
The combined $37 million cost for these repairs is significant, said Neil Godbout, executive director of the Prince George Chamber of Commerce, noting that it is about the same amount spent to build the Canfor Pool downtown.
The chamber applauds the city for securing $6.3 million through a federal grant, supplementing the $8.58 million designated in 2019 for the Aquatic Centre’s repairs and upgrades. While understanding the financial logic behind concurrent repairs to minimize costs and service disruptions, the chamber believes the $22.15 million expenditure warrants additional scrutiny.
Civic infrastructure like the Aquatic Centre is vital for community quality of life and business attractiveness,” Godbout said, in a news release. “However, the chamber advocates for a more thorough analysis and broader public discussion regarding the total costs involved.”
According to B.C. law, municipalities must obtain voter approval before taking on long-term loans for major capital projects. The city council has chosen to use the alternative approval process for the proposed borrowing, allowing residents to submit opposition forms starting this Friday and ending August 9. If 10 per cent or more of registered voters oppose, the council must either abandon the plan or seek approval through a referendum.
The Chamber recommends better planning for major capital projects and associated borrowing, suggesting that voter approval should be sought during municipal elections held every four years.
“Discussions about repairing the pool have been ongoing since at least 2019,” Godbout said. “If feasible, the borrowing decision for this project could be postponed until the 2026 municipal elections, giving voters a direct voice.”