Maria Canton
Northern News Services

Kugaaruk (Aug 28/00) - Once the Kugaaruk youth and elders centre is complete, activities will take on a traditional and creative flavour.

"We aren't going to have arcade games and pool tables in the centre," said Quinn Taggart, the town's senior administrative officer.

"The centre will provide a space for youth and elders to get together without being cramped or constantly interrupted."

Last week brought the final instalment of funding for the $130,000 renovation project that is expected to be complete by January.

Premier Paul Okalik stopped in the Kitikmeot community Aug. 15 to meet with the youth and elders committees and announce the $64,000 grant.

The money complements a previous $66,000 grant from the Department of Culture, Language, Elders and Youth that allowed the hamlet to order building materials in time for this summer's barge.

"The materials were ordered in time and they should be in on our main barge order in mid-September," said Taggart.

"We'll start on the outside renovations right away and work on the inside once winter starts. We're hoping to be done by January."

Last year the hamlet purchased the building for $1 from the local Co-op.

As soon as the barge order arrives, Taggart says they will immediately begin installing water and sewage tanks, fixing the roofing, replacing the siding and repairing the foundation.

"Most of the outside renovations have to be contracted out and done by certified professionals, but once we're inside the building we'll have the elders and youth doing the sanding and painting," said Taggart.

The centre will provide meeting space for elders to plan events such as land camps, and a venue for youth activities, like movie nights.

"We know space is limited in the community and we know the youth need a place where they can gather without family always being around, but the centre won't exactly be a drop-in centre.

"There will also be a lot of gatherings with both elders and youth so they can teach and learn traditional ways."