ST. PAUL - Although no decision was made, Town of St. Paul council and administration discussed shutting down the CAP Arena early this season, since it not currently being used due to enhanced measures in place to slow the spread of COVID-19.
Coun. Ron Boisvert had initially brought the topic up during Monday night's council meeting as an addition to the agenda, but agreed to bring it forward at a future meeting instead. The item was included in the Committee of the Whole agenda for Jan. 14.
Boisvert noted that next week, an announcement is expected from the provincial government regarding what will happen with sports and recreation. Earlier in the month, the Government of Alberta extended many of the public health measures in place to Jan. 21, which means sports such as hockey, figured skating and curling cannot take place until that date.
Town of St. Paul CAO Kim Heyman said she would likely recommend shutting down the CAP Arena, which is one of two arenas in the Town of St. Paul, if there is another extension to the measures. She described keeping the arena open as an "unnecessary expense."
Coun. Gary Ward agreed, saying the town operates with one arena - the Clancy Richard Arena - at the start of the season, and could do so if the CAP was shut down early. The move would save a fair amount of funds.
The curling rink would also have to be looked at if another extension occurs.
Mayor Maureen Miller said she had a discussion with MLA David Hanson to express that she felt it was unfortunate that organizations and businesses went "above and beyond" to meet the requirements to operate safely, only to be shut down and have their seasons cut short. The groups and businesses really did try hard to meet the requirements put forward by the province, she noted
Boisvert said he had no problem allowing administration to make the call on closing the CAP Arena once more information was known.
Ward agreed with administration being able to shut down the CAP if needed, but added he would like the item brought back to council for discussions around the Clancy Richard Arena and the curling rink.
