Needs assessment for proposed multiplex planned

Richard Froese
South Peace News

Residents promoting a vision to build a multiplex in High Prairie have set the next steps to gauge community and municipal support.

“We plan to put a proposal to the Town of High Prairie and Big Lakes County councils in the coming months,” says Aaron Klassen, who chairs the High Prairie Multiplex Committee.

Vice-chair John Paddon was absent from the Feb. 20 meeting.

“We’ll request that the town and county contribute funding to do a recreation needs assessment,” Klassen says.

“The biggest thing is to get the town and county on board, working together.”

Diana Shybunia and Christine Ridge volunteered to share the roles as secretary-treasurer.

“We’ve had some people tell us they are adamant about having adequate recreation facilities in the community,” Klassen says.

“Some people ask can the community afford a multiplex?”

He says the multiplex would be a major draw to attract new residents to the area and as local businesses grow, others will locate in the region.

“A multiplex will be a welcome addition,” Klassen says.

Community support is vital to the process.

“We need to do a needs assessment to see what the community wants,” Klassen says.

“We want to build a facility that meets the needs of the region.”

Paddon projects a planning phase of 5-7 years and the building constructed in about 10 years.

Expenses could be reduced by using local contractors.

“We have local trades that could build the facility,” Klassen says. “There are lots of options to cut costs.”

Further, he suggests the multiplex committee could partner with another project launched by the High Prairie and District Regional Recreation Board.

“Maybe we could get together with the splash park committee,” says Klassen.

“The more facilities we have, the better for the community.”

Klassen and Paddon have suggested the recreational and cultural multiplex could include a walking and running track, exercise and weight rooms, a gymnasium, library, and a food concession.

The next meeting is scheduled for March 20 at Amiro’s at 7 p.m.

For more information, phone Klassen at [780] 507-9052.