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Hays group looking to construct permanent feature in camping area

Posted on May 7, 2020 by Vauxhall Advance

By Cole Parkinson
Vauxhall Advance
cparkinson@tabertimes.com

A local community group in the hamlet of Hays is exploring the idea of constructing an openwalled roof shelter in the camping recreation area.

The group is willing to provide the labour to build the shelter but they were asking the Municipal District of Taber to purchase the materials.

“I met with the fellow who is heading this up and actually got more information. This is what
they are proposing as a group. They are proposing the labour to build this if the M.D. provided materials,” said Jason Bullock, director of agricultural services, during the M.D.’s regular meeting on April 14.

The group had also priced out costs, which administration stated they believed those figures would likely be different at the time of build date. Two options were presented — wood pole shelter 50 feet by 120 feet for a cost of $35,957.07 — or a steel frame shelter 80 feet by 100 feet at a cost of $89,487.30.

“This dollar figure needs to be budgeted,” added Bullock, who also highlighted the fact some grant funding may be available for this sort of project. “Bryan Badura was looking at the agenda and saw (this
item) and he said we might be able to get some grant money for something like that. It could be anywhere
from five to 40 per cent of the cost covered according to the grant funding I’m looking at.”

One concern from council brought forward was the additional upkeep costs that the facility would need regularly.

Before approving the project, council wanted further discussions with all groups.

“I think moving forward it would be okay to consider it and possibly look at grants. I would also like to see more collaboration with the group and the rec board. I want to see everyone involved with the planning process if it is approved,” said Deputy Reeve Jen Crowson.

Administration further clarified this project would be undertaken likely next year and was not in immediate consideration.

“From administration’s perspective, to reiterate Jason’s initial comments, this is really in its
infant stages. Those would definitely be questions asked and that is part of the reason we are suggesting it be deferred to a more detailed 2021 budget process. We might have some of those questions answered a bit more finitely as well as have more opportunity to talk to the other stakeholders in the area,” said CAO Arlos Crofts.

Council inquired if administration would reach out to the Village of Barnwell to see what costs were
involved in building their permanent structure.

A motion to consider this request during the 2021 budget deliberations process was carried unanimously.

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