Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Feb 25/02) - A $6-million "family centre" is a step closer to reality after ratepayers gave their blessing last week.

A proposal to borrow $5 million to finance construction of the centre passed by a 135-82 vote. The facility would include a year-round pool and fitness equipment.

Supporters aim to raise the other $1 million needed to construct the centre.

Thirty-eight per cent of eligible voters voted.

"Certainly 135-to-82 is a pretty good margin," said Mayor Peter Clarkson.

"We've got a clear mandate. We'll start to put together the exact information on the costs and how the project will come together and, as well, at the same time, doing as much fund-raising as we can."

Derek Lindsay, owner of Lindsay's Accounting, is one of the people concerned about the projected construction and operating costs of the family centre.

"They've got to come to the people and say this is what it is going to cost, because I don't think $6 million is even going to touch it. They didn't do their homework," Lindsay said.

"I'm still all for the concept of a pool, but I didn't support the concept of a huge fitness centre."

Lindsay is also president of the Chamber of Commerce of Inuvik but said the chamber has not taken an official stand on this issue. He also said he was disappointed that the voter turnout wasn't higher, and that he expected the final result to be closer.

Projected costs

Annual operating costs for the centre are estimated at $400,000, and revenues are expected to bring in around $200,000.

If the town takes out a loan for $5 million, it proposes to make annual payments of $500,000 for 20 years.

Mike Muller, chair of the town's recreation and parks advisory board, said the plebiscite result is "a very positive message to go forward in a responsible way."

Clarkson said it'll be up to council to determine the best way to get the project underway, and that construction probably will not occur before next year.

"Interest rates are good right now for borrowing," he said. "Hopefully, they will stay low."