M.D. demands answers from gov’t

Chris Clegg
South Peace News

The M.D. of Big Lakes is demanding answers from the Alberta government regarding a letter sent to them from Infrastructure Minister Jack Hayden regarding the new High Prairie Health Complex. Hayden wrote the M.D. and various other parties Dec. 16, 2008 informing them the government was reviewing all capital plans for health facilities “including the redevelopment of the High Prairie Health Complex.” Unknown to the M.D., however, was High Prairie Mayor Rick Dumont and economic development officer already went to Edmonton to discuss the matter. Dumont assured town council at their meeting Jan. 14 there is nothing to worry about. Not knowing what happened with town council, however, the M.D. had several concerns at their Jan. 14 meeting. “What does that mean?” asks Reeve Alvin Billings, referring to the redevelopment of the hospital. “What are we going to end up with?” asks Joussard Councillor Guy L’Heureux. “My feeling is, they’re not in a hurry to retender it,” says Triangle, Gilwood Councillor Ken Matthews. Matthews is referring to work which started on the pilings but a soil sample review determined more pilings were needed and drilled deeper. Tenders were released and came in at 181 per cent higher prompting the review of the project and delay. “You have to wonder what type of facility they’re going to give us,” says L’Heureux. Councillors did agree the letter was vague in what “redevelopment” meant and are demanding a firm answer. “My concern is it might become a glorified clinic,” says Matthews. “That’s my fear, but I have nothing to support it.” “I hope your feelings are dead wrong,” says Billings. The M.D. agreed to write Hayden asking exactly what is going on with the project. Hayden wrote in his letter he expects the review to be complete early in 2009. The Alberta government has promised on two occasions they will pay for any construction cost overruns at the hospital.

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