Mega-gym and hotel open new doors, says city
Richard Gleeson
Northern News Services
NNSL (Jul 31/98) - Two projects that got the green light Monday could attract more southern dollars.
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How they voted Gym expansion
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Against: Super 8 Hotel
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The new Weledeh school gym will be linked to the St. Pat's gym by a retractable wall. As one room, said Catholic school board superintendent Loretta Foley, the two gyms will provide standing room for 3,960, seating for 2,100 and allow enough space for 1,065 people at tables.
Describing the $5-million project as "a new civic emporium," Dr. Foley noted, "There's no other place in Yellowknife that can accommodate that number of people year round." She said it would be ideal for trade shows and conventions, as well as music and art festivals.
Several councillors said the Super 8 hotel proposed for a lot between Extra Foods and Wal-Mart on Old Airport Road will push the city beyond a 500-room requirement for some conventions.
"Basically, that pushes us up to the next category for conferences, which opens the city up to new business," said Coun. Bob Brooks.
A spokesman for the hotel's developer told council the investors are hoping to open the Super 8 this winter.
The business argument overshadowed concerns about safety and property values expressed by people living near the proposed development.
"If it was a motel we wouldn't even be sitting here discussing it tonight," noted Coun. David Ramsay.
The zoning of the property allows motels, but requires council approval for hotels.
Coun. Peggy Near also noted the zoning allows bars and restaurants, something two residents predicted would follow on the heels of the hotel.
Discussion of the gym focused on taking money from the $3.5-million fund set up for a twin-pad arena.
Both Near and Coun. Kevin O'Reilly said the fund should remain untouched until a comprehensive recreational plan is developed. But Foley said the school board needed an answer by the end of the month.
The rest of council, and the mayor, argued the opportunity was too good to turn down.
"It's a luxury for us to be able to plan," said Coun. Ben McDonald. "If an opportunity comes up its incumbent upon us to make the best decision with the information available."
