The Future of Arenas

Our city is examining the usage and cost of maintaining hockey arenas.  Their initial recommendation is to close down two arenas, which would devastate the various minor hockey, figure skating and sledge hockey programs.  Last night there was a public meeting so the general population could voice their opinions on this matter.  I was unable to attend but apparently numerous people and organizations spoke out against the idea of closing arenas.

Here is a letter I sent to the City regarding this matter:

To whom it may concern,

I am a citizen, business owner, coach, and hockey and soccer mom.  Understandably, I am extremely concerned about the potential of closing one, if not two arenas in Sarnia.

I believe that numerous, more qualified people, gave passionate arguments against closing arenas at last night's information session.  I don't see the need to repeat or emphasize their very logical and informed arguments.

That said, what I don't understand is that in the midst of all this talk of closing arenas, there is zero discussion about building a new one.  There is no discussion about a long-term solution to this city's recreational services problem. This city needs to take it's blinders off and realize that the consolidation of arenas into a new, more efficient facility is ultimately the solution.  There, I said it.  BUILD a new, multi-pad arena.  If you really want to think big, build a multi-pad arena, AND build an indoor turf facility as part of it.

Yes it will cost millions initially to build and implement.  But if the city (with Federal and Provincial support and funding) can spend  MILLIONS to build a new, virtually unused art gallery, why can't they spend a similar amount to build a new arena facility that will be used by THOUSANDS instead of the hundred or so that go to the gallery?  The long-term cost benefits and efficiencies created by having one facility instead of four would be astronomical. 

Close down the arenas that are archaic and ancient, and centralize hockey and soccer in Sarnia.  If this city builds a four pad complex similar to what they have at the Western Fairgrounds, they will be able to house the Legionnaires, and the various minor hockey and figure skating associations.  In the summer, they could maintain one ice pad, and convert the other three for Lacrosse.  The turf facility would be used YEAR ROUND by the various soccer, rugby and lacrosse associations.

Again, let's not be stuck in the present, but let's look to the future of our city, and the future of our children.  Let's BUILD something this city can truly be proud of.  Something that will encourage and enable our children and adults to be active and healthy.  Something that has the potential to bring MILLIONS into this city by way of tournaments and festivals.  Let THIS be Sarnia's legacy.

Sincerely,
Tara Pace-James