Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Nov 23/01) - Members of the fitness club at the Aurora College gym would like to move into a currently unfinished portion of the second floor at the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex.

Club member Suzanne Krumbhols spoke to Inuvik town council last week, and explained the non-profit club's current area is not big enough to accommodate its roughly 60 individual and 40 corporate memberships.

Krumbhols explained the fitness committee is asking the town to provide the space free of rent for four years.

In return, the centre would pay for the cost of necessary renovations, about $80,000.

These renovations would not include work necessary just to finish the space, including putting in a concrete floor.

"We're not asking for anything else at this point," Krumbhols said in her presentation to council.

Krumbhols said if the town allows the move, it would probably take about 18 months before the necessary funds could be raised for members to move in.

Also needed will be about $80,000 worth of equipment.

As well, Krumbhols explained that if the proposed family centre is built, then the fitness club would relocate to that building.

Krumbhols said there would be many benefits to having the fitness centre in the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex, such as adding to the variety of activities and users in that building, and encouraging residents to live more active and healthier lifestyles.

Back in October representative from the Inuvik Child Development Centre, formerly the Midnight Sun Daycare, appeared before council, requesting to move into the same space.

On Tuesday an official with the centre said they're still waiting to hear how much it would cost to make the move.

Last week Mayor Peter Clarkson said the town, which is currently planning its 2002 budget, will probably complete the space in question next year.

This will include putting in a concrete floor and washrooms.

"By that point we will have heard from one group or the other whether or not they have the funds to do anything," Clarkson said, pointing out that once completed the space could be used as a regular meeting area.