FORT ST. JOHN -- The Peace River Regional District is seeking more input on the North Peace Leisure Facility.

There's been on-going discussion to replace the facility since 2018.

The PRRD and the City of Fort St. John has proposed three options for the new facility, all of which are expected to raise property taxes in the city, PRRD Areas B and C, and in Taylor.

The first option, will see an enhanced aquatic facility with an estimated project cost of $136 million, and $5.9 million in yearly operating costs.

The second, would also see an enhanced aquatic facility in addition to a 50-metre lap pool at a cost of $284 million, and an estimated $8.8 million in yearly operating costs.

The final option, a multi-use facility with a leisure pool, hot tub, steam room, sauna, waterslide, sports field, two gymnasiums, and two 25-metre lap pools has an estimated project cost of $280 million and $6.6 million in yearly operating expenses.

Nearly 200 area residents have already shared their thoughts during workshops held in April, according to Board Chair Brad Sterling.

 “We heard clearly that residents are concerned about the costs and want more information and opportunities to discuss the potential mix of amenities in the new facility, the costs and property tax implications,” said Sterling.

In a media release, the PRRD says phone and online surveys are currently being conducted to collect additional feedback.

“It’s vital that we hear from area residents through these upcoming opportunities,” says Trevor Bolin, Chair of the North Peace Leisure Facility Replacement Project Steering Committee and City of Fort St. John Councillor.

The first of a new set of workshops will take place in Fort St. John on May 13th at the Pomeroy Sport Centre Olympic Speed Skating Oval.

On May 14, at the Montney Hall in Montney.

Residents of Taylor can attend a workshop on May 15 at the Taylor Community Hall.

On May 16, those interested in sharing their input in Charlie Lake can attend a session at Charlie Lake Elementary School.

The workshops will run from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on each date.  

For those who can't attend, a virtual workshop will take place via Zoom on May 21st.

“The project partners will use this input to make decisions on next steps, which could include holding a referendum vote on the loan amount,” said Bolin.