It is with interest that I have been following the discussion relating to the need for two additional ice pads in our city. It seems that council initiated discussions relating to the need for the double ice pad, yet it now appears that council is evaluating location with that seeming to the most important aspect of this process. Location is merely a means to an end versus the need for a facility that could be built that is benefit based in terms of providing healthy active living opportunities for all citizens.
The question that has arisen in my mind is how can we evaluate location when we really don’t seem to have a handle on what we want to build? I am of the opinion that if the focus is just on two ice pads; then we might be missing the boat in terms of understanding what the big picture could look like. It seems that a focus on what opportunities could be incorporated into a facility should first be determined and use that data to determine what location could best meet those needs.
This could be an opportunity to create a community hub that could recognize the need for diversified planning that could meet the needs of many residents for years to come rather than just the needs of those utilizing ice surfaces. A facility such as this could provide opportunities for all citizens to be part of a healthy active living centre that engages our citizens in healthy active living opportunities, create community and commercial partnerships, ensure access for all regardless of socio-economic status, disabilities, gender or age and provide a much stronger base for long-term sustainability through diversified programs and services. It could address much more than a sports venue and could become a broadly based leisure hub.
The original request for information seems to have become more of a problem rather than a solution. Rather than continue down the path the currently exists, take a step back and develop a Request for Proposal that addresses programs, services, partnerships, sustainability as well as location and the ability of that location to develop a multifaceted facility that could be enjoyed by all citizens rather just those involved with ice sports. In other words, a comprehensive business plan that outlines how each submission can best meet the needs of as many citizens as possible. The need for the ice pads is what initiated this whole process and that can’t be lost as to its importance, but let’s think much broader and use this as an opportunity to create a facility that speaks to the importance of healthy active living for all citizens. It does not have to be a one-time development, but a phased-in process could be part of any proposal.
Council had very good intentions when it started this process in terms of looking for a location, but the end result for that process has changed. This is about more than location. New concepts have emerged. There is no shame in taking a step back, re-evaluating what you are looking for and develop a request for proposal that will allow decisions to be made based on a submission that offers a myriad of opportunities rather than just looking for a location.
By Dave Saad
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