Town of Smithers
Transcription
Town of Smithers
Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN FINAL REPORT DATE: July 6th, 2010 PRESENTED TO: Town of Smithers Box 879 1027 Aldous Street Smithers BC V0J 2N0 Mr. Andrew Hillaby, Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture [email protected] bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 2 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 contents EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Page 3 1. Page 4 INTRODUCTION Team Report Organization Methodology 2. REVIEW AND ANALYSIS Page 5 Information Gathering Review and Analysis 3. COMMUNITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT AND SERVICE PRIORITIZATION Page 7 Stakeholder Meetings Open House Program Development 4. CONCEPT OPTIONS Page 13 5. THE PREFERRED OPTION and COST ANALYSIS Page 16 The Preferred Option Preliminary Costing 6. BUSINESS PLAN Page 15 7. CONCLUSIONS Page 36 8. APPENDICES Page 37 Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Appendix E Project Directory and Meeting Notes User Group Meeting Notes Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Open House Survey Results Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Presentation Panels Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Life Expectancy and Maintenance Review Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 3 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 executive summary In the fall of 2009, the Town of Smithers retained the services of Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc. and Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants (PERC) to provide a feasibility study and business plan for the development of a recreation multiplex facility in the Town of Smithers. This report presents the findings of the study. It was the goal of this study to provide a snap-shot view of the current condition of the buildings, to review opportunities presented by the existing facilities, and to assist in imagining future options for maintaining and improving these valuable community assets. This report was developed from observations gathered during site visits, and through a review of existing drawings and documentation provided by the owner. The process was guided by a series of meetings with the Town Council, user groups and the public that were critical in identifying community needs and service priorities for the region. An iterative process of preparing and discussing concept options with Council was informed by feedback received through a public open house. The resultant preferred option and business plan included in this report represents a significant step towards providing the community with a vibrant and exciting addition to the Smithers Recreation Multiplex Facility. The study and this report recommends additions to the existing ice facility in Smithers to provide a second sheet of ice and new player’s change rooms in the near future, but also provides a longer term view for future upgrades. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 4 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 1 introduction 1.1 Introduction The Town of Smithers – SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN represents a substantial effort on the part of the Town of Smithers to diversify and expand recreation, community and leisure offerings. This document summarizes the findings of the client, BCA, PERC and the project team. It assembles information on the Preferred Option, design drawings and business plan to provide the Town of Smithers with a comprehensive study, suitable for presentation to senior levels of government. Armed with this information and report, the Town of Smithers can make informed choices on the way to address the recreation needs of the residents of Smithers and surrounding communities. 1.2 Team To achieve the project goals, a complimentary and experienced team of professionals was assembled: Architecture & Planning Recreation & Public Consulting Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Bruce Carscadden, Matt Halverson Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants William Webster, Monty Holding, James Pammenter The consulting team was greatly assisted by the contributions of the staff members who gave their time, energy and guidance in this process and in the preparation of this report. Key participants included: Andrew Hillaby Cress Farrow Lorne Benson Joanne Groves Deborah Sargent Mark Allen Leslie Ford Wilf Takeima 1.3 Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture, Town of Smithers Mayor, Town of Smithers Councilor, Town of Smithers Councilor, Town of Smithers Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Smithers Director of Development Services, Town of Smithers Director of Finance, Town of Smithers Director of Works and Operations, Town of Smithers Report Organization This report is organized to reflect the methodology and step by step process taken by BCA and PERC in their work with the Town of Smithers. The following headings are used to organize the report: Review and Analysis Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization Concept Options The Preferred Option and Cost Analysis Business Plan Draft and Final Report BCA developed the concept options based upon the review and analysis of the site, existing facilities and information provided through consultation with the public, user groups, and staff, guided by PERC. The concept options developed by BCA changed according to this collaboration, until a preferred option was settled upon. With the program, budget and design for the Preferred Option and the Business Plan now finalized, the report can now be brought forward to official presentation. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 5 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 2 review and analysis 2.1 Information Gathering An iterative process was undertaken to gather information through the sharing of existing documentation and a series of meetings to collect and discuss observations. Documentation was made available for review from the existing Smithers Recreation Multiplex and from Bruce Carscadden Architect’s records. See Appendix B for a complete listing of the contents of the drawings listed below: Drawings: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Heritage Park Utilities (August 2008) Heritage Park Proposed Concept (no date) Steel Building Community Arena Layout (no date) Steel Building Drawings (Olympia Steel Building Systems, May 26th, 2009) Second Sheet of Ice and Expanded Civic Centre (Dan Condon, Architect, November 2004) Curling Facility Drawings (McElhanney Surveying and Engineering Ltd, no date) Buick Ice Arena Plans (M. Milligan and Associates, November 2007; made available by Venture Pacific Construction Management) Reports: 1. Town of Smithers Official Community Plan (draft) section 4.Demographic Information and Projections 2. Smithers Outdoor Recreation Master Plan (Grant Copeland and Associates, November 2nd, 1988) 3. Town of Smithers Recreational Master Plan 1998-2002 (Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants, December 15th, 1997) 4. Condition Assessment of Arena Building, Smithers, B.C. (Dan Condon, Architect, Terrace, B.C., May 1998) 5. Smithers Arena Energy Study (The Maricor Group and Prism Engineering, December 2006) 6. Heritage Park Aerial Photo (2003) 7. Steel Building Quote (Olympia Steel Buildings Systems, May 26th, 2009) 8. Steel Building Insulation Price Proposal (Guardian Building Products, May 26th, 2009) 9. Community Arena Supply Quote (Charles “Chic” Tyson, no date) 10. Steel Building Insulation Price Proposal (Guardian Building Products, June 16th, 2009) 11. Pacific Energy Solutions Price Quote (May 26th, 2009) 12. Ice Rink Construction Budget Quotation – Multi-purpose (Roustan United, no date) 13. Potential Focus Groups List from Owner (Town of Smithers) 14. Community Directory excerpt (Town of Smithers) 15. Buick Ice Arena Budget (M. Milligan and Associates, November 2007, made available by Venture Pacific Construction Management) bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 6 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 2 review and analysis In addition to the review of source material, meetings with Town of Smithers officials and arena maintenance staff were organized to tour the facilities and discuss known issues and collect firsthand observations. The Project Initiation Meeting between Bruce Carscadden Architect, Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants, and the Town of Smithers Recreation, Parks and Culture Department provided the opportunity to discuss goals and share documentation. The Smithers RPCD shared a list of maintenance concerns, and guided BCA on a preliminary tour of the facilities under review. To this end, a Life Cycle Analysis and Maintenance Review of the existing facilities was completed, as seen below. This can be viewed in more detail in the appendices of this document. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 7 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 3 community needs assessment and service prioritization 3.1 Stakeholder Meetings With support and input from BCA, Bill Webster and Monty Holding of Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants conducted a comprehensive Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization for the proposed Smithers Recreation Multiplex, which centered on a number of stakeholder focus group meetings over November 30th and December 1st, 2009. These meetings were conducted to gauge support for the proposed Multiplex and solicit suggestions for desired programming elements. Meetings were held with representatives from the Town of Smithers Council and Mayor, Smithers Senior Secondary, the Smithers Second Sheet of Ice Committee, Myriad Dance Projects, the Smithers Gallery Association, Adult Art Classes, the Old Timers Hockey League, Smithers Merchants, the Phase One Committee, Smithers Minor Hockey, Christian Kids Hockey, Northwest Community College, Bulkley Valley Cross Country Ski Club, Figure Skating, High Road Services, Smithers Slo Pitch & Minor Hockey Officials, the Bulkley Valley Pool & Recreation Centre, the Smithers District Chamber of Commerce, the Bulkley Valley Otters Swim Club, the Smithers Judo Club, and Smithers Junior Softball. Attendees from each of these stakeholder groups were invited to provide their input into needed or desired programming elements, and three architectural panels on site context, proposed program and local precedents were made available to augment discussion. Detailed results from these discussions can be found in the appendices to this report. Discussions included lists of desired program elements, as well as ideas and concerns regarding the suitability and economic viability of the proposed multiplex. The latter information was used by PERC in the development of the Business Plan, and both sets of information were used later in the four concept options developed by BCA. From these meetings, a “Wish List” of program elements was developed, which included: •Multipurpose space/studio for Adult Art •Large multipurpose space/studio for Dance •Second NHL sized ice sheet •8 ice change rooms •Multipurpose, dry-floor uses for arena – seating a priority •Double Gym •Larger concession •Youth multipurpose space •Commercial kitchen •Expanded aquatic facilities An exhaustive summary of wish list items and focus group comments is included in the appendices of this document. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 8 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 3 community needs assessment and service prioritization 3.2 Program Development Program development included discussions of both local and international precedents and related facilities. Through an iterative process, a preferred program was developed, and used in the conceptual design options. Following is the preferred program, including expected space requirements: PUBLIC SPACES Public Washroom Lobby and Entry Control Desk and Administration 510 m2 (5,500 ft2) MULTIPURPOSE ARENA Spectator Seating Event Floor Change Rooms Mechanical and Services Spaces 18,000 to 22,000 ft2 18,300 ft2 3,500 ft2 1,700 ft2 4,650 m2 (50,000 ft2) GYM and ACTIVITY SPACES Gymnasium Indoor Track Multipurpose Spaces Youth Centre Fitness Centre 4,800 to 16,000 ft2 2,400 to 3,600 ft2 3,000 to 6,000 ft2 1,000 to 3,000 ft2 2,000 to 3,000 ft2 OPTIONS Leasable Space Seniors Centre Enhance Existing Arena 1,000 ft2 1,000 to 3,000 ft2 18,000 ft2 3,250m2 (35,000 ft2) 3.3 Open House Following the development of four concept options (summary of these to follow in Section 4), BCA and PERC conducted two public Open Houses at Smithers Town Hall on Thursday, February 4th. Attendees were invited to view the concept options, as well as a study of the site and precedents and speak with the consultants about their wishes or concerns for the Smithers Multiplex. Attendees were also encouraged to fill out a survey prepared by PERC. Of the estimated 35 attendees of the Open House, 28 surveys were completed. The detailed results of the surveys are included in the appendices of this document, but the majority of respondents expressed support for the Multiplex, identifying Concept Option 3 as their preferred option, and singling out the gymnasium as the most important program feature. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 9 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 4 concept options 4.1 Concept Options Through steering committee meetings and design workshops, a number of concept options were developed, with elements of each being combined with new features, ideas and scopes in order to move towards a Preferred Option. Four options were presented initially, and following the Open House and further discussion with the steering committee, three more options were developed. 4.2 The First Iteration The following four options were presented at the initial meeting with the Town of Smithers. Subsequent options were based on the input given on the following designs. 1 2 3 4 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 10 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 4 concept options 4.2 The First Iteration (continued) Concept Option One The first concept option proposed the addition of a single gymnasium to the existing campus of recreation facilities in Smithers, as well as new multipurpose space. This plan featured connections to the aquatic centre and curling club, and was estimated at $9.2 million. Concept Option Two The $13.9 million Option Two features a second, NHL-sized ice sheet added to the existing arena. In includes new change rooms to be shared between both ice sheets, and modest seating, but no other program features or connections. Concept Option Three Concept Option Three proposed a significant, $25.4 million addition to the existing arena that includes a second ice sheet with spectator seating for up to 1,200 people, along with a gymnasium and multipurpose space. The arena addition imagines a new arena lobby on the opposite side of the facility from the aquatic centre. This option was identified by the most people in the Open House Survey as their favoured option for the Smithers Recreation Multiplex. Concept Option Four Concept Option four proposes a two-storey, $44.7 million, expansion to create a state-of-the-art recreation facility for the Town of Smithers. Featuring a second ice sheet with spectator viewing, a double gymnasium, multipurpose space, fitness room, and youth and senior spaces, the design also provides the opportunity for an indoor walking track. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 11 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 4 concept options 4.3 The Second Iteration Following the Open House, the steering committee engaged the consultants to create two more concept options for review. Specifically, these concepts explored future phasing options. Concept Option Five Building on Option Three and its popularity from the Open House, Option Five proposed the addition of a gymnasium, multipurpose room and a second ice sheet with spectator seating for 400, each added to the existing facility over the course of four phases. Concept Option Six Also presented over four phases, Concept Option Six proposes a second ice sheet with spectator seating for up to 1,200, multipurpose space and repurposes the existing but under-used curling facility as a double gymnasium. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 12 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 4 concept options 4.4 The Third Iteration Concept Option Seven Following review of Concept Options Five and Six, and the increased desire to focus on the addition of a second ice sheet, the consultant’s developed Concept Option Seven, which proposes a budget-conscious $8.3 million twinning of the existing arena. The 30,000 square foot addition would feature an NHL-sized ice sheet, four skate change rooms and movable seating for 300. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 13 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 5 the preferred option and cost analysis 5.1 The Preferred Option Overview Program Summary NHL-sized ice surface 4 change rooms (2,700 ft2) Mechanical and service spaces Portable seating for 300 or up to 800 Administrative Offices (300 ft2) Shared access to the new change rooms for the existing arena Future Enhancements including: Multipurpose spaces Viewing into the existing arena Links to the curling club Through a series of meetings with the Town of Smithers and the steering committee, Concept Option Seven was eventually identified as the Preferred Option. The basic concept was refined over a series of further designs, eventually leading to the concept illustrated below. The Preferred Option proposes an addition to the existing arena at Smithers’ campus of recreation facilities to significantly provide a second NHL sized ice sheet, and four new players change rooms. These spaces will add the programming space and functionality needed to improve the user experience at the arena in the short term. The plan also includes portable seating, upgrades to mechanical spaces and new administrative offices, and aims to address the immediate needs and desires of the Town of Smithers. The plan also includes the flexibility necessary to further build upon and expand the improved facility in future phases. These enhancements could include the addition of multipurpose spaces, a lobby with views into the existing arena, and connections to the curling club. 5.2 Preliminary Cost Analysis COST ESTIMATE Bruce Carscadden Architect produced an architectural cost estimate for the Preferred Option as follows: CAPITAL COSTS Program and budget are key components of a successful concept and project. A typical project budget includes both construction and non-construction costs. Construction costs, at this concept phase, are based on per square foot costs developed from comparable recent projects. Non-construction costs are based on a percentage of the construction cost and include other client expenses such as development cost charges, professional fees and move-in costs. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 14 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 5 the preferred option and cost analysis 5.3 The Preferred Option bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 15 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan This part of our report deals with the business aspects of the proposed development. Introduction Residents of Smithers have been working towards adding a second sheet of ice since 1996 when the Smithers Second Sheet of Ice Committee (the Committee) raised funds to prepare a conceptual plan for Council, and Council agreed in principle with the need for a second sheet. In 1998 the “Smithers Arena Conceptual Site Study” was prepared and Council set up a Reserve Bylaw for the future second sheet. In 2004 the Committee funded the Lions Gate Business Case Analysis which Council endorsed. In 2009 Council authorized a feasibility study to review several possible options. To date, Committee fundraising, a government grant and Council Reserve contributions have generated funds of $2.078 million. Together with the “Second Sheet of Ice Loan Authorization Bylaw 1508”, and deducting the cost of the feasibility study, a total of $2.699 million is currently available for the project. Relevant Demographic Data The service area of Smithers’ recreation facilities is considered to be the Town itself plus Telkwa and Area A of the Bulkley-Nechako Regional District (BNRD). For several years the population of the BNRD has declined. The following table summarizes relevant census data. Population Changes, 1996 to 2006 Area Smithers Telkwa Area A Service area BNRD BC 5,625 1,200 5,573 12,398 5,414 1,371 5,696 12,481 2001 on 1996 -3.8% 14.3% 2.2% 0.7% 41,655 3,724,505 40,856 3,907,738 -1.9% 4.9% 1996 2001 Source: BC Stats and Statistics Canada census profiles. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. 5,217 1,295 5,290 11,802 2006 on 2001 -3.6% -5.5% -7.1% -5.4% 2006 on 1996 -7.3% 7.9% -5.1% -4.8% 38,243 4,113,487 -6.4% 5.3% -8.2% 10.4% 2006 Page 16 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan The service area population fell by 802 or 4.8% between the 1996 and 2006 census, although this was less than the 8.2% loss in the BNRD as a whole. However the decline in Smithers was steeper than in the service area combined, while the population of Telkwa actually increased. The proportion of Smithers in the total service area remained constant (45% in 1996 and 44% in 2006). The decline has been halted, and BC Stats estimates the 2009 population to be 5,321 in Smithers, 1,357 in Telkwa and 38,860 in the BNRD. The numbers for Area A are not available. The population changes were not consistent in the different age groups as the following census data shows in detail. Age Distribution of Census Populations 0-19 20-44 45-64 65+ 1996 Census Smithers Telkwa Area A Service area 32.7% 38.0% 34.4% 34.0% 42.1% 42.6% 36.2% 39.2% 17.1% 12.4% 22.1% 19.2% 8.1% 7.0% 7.3% 7.6% BNRD BC 34.9% 26.3% 39.3% 39.2% 18.8% 21.8% 7.0% 12.8% 2001 Census Smithers Telkwa Area A Service area 32.4% 36.2% 34.4% 33.7% 37.1% 39.1% 34.5% 36.2% 20.7% 19.9% 25.2% 22.7% 9.7% 4.8% 5.9% 7.4% BNRD BC 32.9% 25.0% 36.1% 36.3% 22.9% 25.1% 8.2% 13.6% 2006 Census Smithers Telkwa Area A Service area 30.3% 34.6% 30.4% 30.8% 33.6% 33.1% 29.2% 31.5% 25.0% 25.8% 32.4% 28.4% 11.1% 6.5% 8.1% 9.3% BNRD BC 29.9% 23.2% 31.4% 33.8% 28.3% 28.4% 10.4% 14.6% Source: BC Stats and Statistics Canada census profiles. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 17 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan The population aged in all of the jurisdictions in the table. Persons 45 and older comprised 35% of the BC population in 1996 and 43% on 2006. For the BNRD the increase was from 26% to 39%. In the service area the over-44 population jumped from 27% to 38%, about the same as in the Regional District. The increase of around 11% was consistent in Smithers (25% to 36%) and Area A (29% to 40%). The aging was slightly faster in Telkwa (19% to 32%), but the small population does not influence the service area results very much. The following chart graphically illustrates the decline, and aging, of the population in the service area. Changes in Population and Age Distribution in the Service Area 16,000 14,000 Population 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0 1996 2001 0-19 20-44 45-64 2006 65+ Source: BC Stats and Statistics Canada census profiles. The feasibility of the project depends to a large extent on the expectation of future population changes. BC Stats prepares population projections at the School District, Regional District and Provincial levels, but not for municipalities. The following chart summarizes historical and projected population, by age group, for School District 54 – Bulkley Valley. The projections were prepared in 2009. Figures are estimated to 2008 and projected thereafter. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 18 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Changes in Population and Age Distribution in School District 54, 1996 to 2036 20,000 18,000 16,000 Population 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0-18 19-44 45-64 2036 2034 2032 2030 2028 2026 2024 2022 2020 2018 2016 2014 2012 2010 2008 2006 2004 2002 2000 1998 1996 0 65+ Source: BC Stats population projections The pattern from 1996 to 2006 follows that illustrated for the service area. However, from 2010 onwards BC Stats projects population growth and a slowing in the growth of the two older age groups combined. In fact, as the chart illustrates, the 65+ group is projected to grow over the period, but the 45-64 group will decline, in both percentage and absolute terms. The result is that the 0-18 and 20-45 age groups combined are projected to remain relatively stable from 2008 to 2036: Year 2008 2036 0 - 18 4,439 4,180 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc 19 - 44 5,289 5,577 Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Combined 9,728 9,757 Page 19 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan These projections may seem counter-intuitive, given recent history, so it is worthwhile quoting BC Stats’ comments on the projections: Growth in Bulkley Valley has been quite slow over the last two decades, except for the period between 1992 and 1997. The population has aged at a slightly faster rate than the province as a whole, adding over ten years to its median age since the mid 1980s, compare with a provincial gain of 7.7. Despite this ageing, this is a young population, with a 2008 median age about three years younger than the provincial median. Fertility rates are very high, around or above replacement level (TFR of 2100) in most years. This higher fertility contributes to the higher ratio of children (aged 17 and under) to working age population (aged 18 to 64) compared to British Columbia as a whole. Conversely, the ratio of elderly (aged 65 and over) to working age population is on the rise, but remains much lower than the provincial ratio. Overall dependency is somewhat higher than provincial levels, at 5.6 dependents for every 10 people of working age. Although sex ratios have been on the decline, males continue to outnumber females by a wide margin, likely due to the dependence on resource industries for employment. In combination with higher fertility, the young age structure of the area's population ensures that births exceed deaths by a substantial margin. In the last ten years, this region has seen negative net migration and in most of these years, the magnitude of natural increase has been too small to compensate, leading to an overall loss of population between 1998 and 2007. Net migration starts out negative, but by 2027 inflows will exceed outflows, causing the average annual net migration to rise from -61 in the first five years, to 56 in the last five. Births are expected to continue to exceed deaths, but by a narrowing margin, reducing the average annual natural increase from 130 in the first five years, to 22 in the last five. Consequently, the population in this region is expected to grow by about 2,000 over the projection period. The population is expected to continue to age1 and, by the end of the projection period, overall dependency is expected to reach 9 for every 10 people of working age. This dependency ratio is similar to the provincial average of 7:10. There is no reason to believe that the age distribution in the service area will differ much from the distribution in the School District. A stable active population means that demand for recreational facilities are unlikely to fall, and that growth is possible from any existing unsatisfied demand. 1 However, the under-45 age groups will remain stable from 2008 to 2036. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 20 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Changes in Average Income Between 1998 and 2007 (the latest year available) average incomes in Smithers and Telkwa have grown at rates similar to those in the BNRD and BC (incomes for Area A are not available), although incomes in Smithers and Telkwa tend to lie between those of BC and the BNRD. The chart below tracks average incomes as reported on all tax returns in the jurisdictions. The following were averages in 1998 and 2007: Year 1998 2007 Smithers $29,071 $40,187 Telkwa $27,156 $38,970 BNRD $26,930 $37,379 BC $28,358 $40,802 In 1998 average income in Smithers was $29,071 in 1998, slightly above BC’s $28,358. Subsequently Smithers’ averages were lower than BC’s but higher than those in Telkwa and the BNRD. By 2007 Smithers’ average had increased to $40,187, 1.5% below BC’s $40,802. The anomalous temporary jump in Telkwa’s average in 2003 is not explained by Canada Revenue Agency. Average Incomes – 1998 to 2007 $41,000 $39,000 Average Income $37,000 $35,000 $33,000 $31,000 $29,000 $27,000 $25,000 1998 1999 2000 2001 Smithers 2002 2003 Telkwa 2004 BNRD 2005 2006 2007 BC Source: BC Stats and Canada Revenue Agency The implication of these figures is that incomes in the service are have not deteriorated over the period, compared with incomes in the BNRD and the Province as a whole. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 21 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Usage of the Present Arena The existing arena ice serves a large number of groups. The following table lists the number of regular users during the past five seasons, using data extracted from the Recreation, Parks and Culture Department. Records are kept of the number of tickets sold for public skating and shinny games, but the number of regular users has been estimated by management. Total users increased by 600 over the last two seasons, due entirely to an increase in the number of schools using the facility. Number of regular Users – 2005/6 to 2009/10 Seasons User Group Minor Hockey Commercial Groups Oldtimers' Hockey Road Warriors Prowlers Rubber Puckers Recreation League Steelheads Hockey Private Ice Rental BVHA Juniors Hockey St Joseph's School Vandenberg Youth Ebenezer School Joint Use Schools2 School District 54 BV Christian School Public Skating & Shinny Public Children/Youth Shinny Adult Shinny Figure Skating Total 2005/6 2006/7 2007/8 2008/9 2009/10 248 242 227 223 258 110 24 26 110 25 23 120 26 26 75 20 255 107 20 285 124 20 316 120 25 29 46 121 20 361 120 28 26 50 133 20 377 40 40 40 40 198 40 40 40 141 379 40 184 20 148 392 811 747 760 811 747 760 766 132 898 736 120 856 125 125 125 18 143 18 143 18 143 125 45 18 188 125 45 18 188 64 1,561 77 1,534 77 1,563 62 2,111 62 2,133 The costs for these schools are covered by a contribution under a Joint Use Agreement with the Regional District. 2 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 22 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan The chart below illustrates usage patterns. The 2008/9 jump in school use appears in the lines for private Ice rentals (St. Joseph’s School and Ebenezer School), and Joint Use Schools (for the Bulkley Valley Christian School). Growth in Number of Users by User Group 1,000 900 800 700 No. of Users In order of no. of users 600 Joint Use Schools Private Ice Rental Commercial Groups Minor Hockey Pub. Skate & Shinny Figure Skating 500 400 300 200 100 0 2005-06 2006/7 2007/8 2008/9 2009/10 Season The total hours used per season has changed little in total over the past ten years (2,631 hours in 1999/2000 and 2,518 hours in 2009/10), because the arena is used to capacity, particularly during prime hours. The following chart summarizes use by major user groups. Detailed records are not kept of public skating and shinny hours, so earlier usage has been estimated from current usage adjusted by changes in scheduling over the past five years. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 23 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Hours Used by Major User Groups 1,200 1,000 Hours 800 In Rough Order of Use Smithers Minor Hockey Commercial Groups Public Skating & Shinny Smithers Figure Skating Joint Use Schools Private Ice Rental 600 400 200 0 1999- 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2000 Season Most user groups have had fairly stable usage trending up in many cases over the last two seasons. Figure skating usage which averaged 500 hours until 2005/6 has dropped to an average of 200 hours over the last three seasons. With current pressures it would be very difficult for find 400 hours, should the sport try to regain its former stature. According to the arena schedules utilization of total ice time (5:45 am to midnight) averaged 85% between the beginning of September 2009 and the end of March 2010, as the following chart illustrates. Utilization of Total Ice Time (including required flooding between sessions) 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% Utilazation 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% Mar 21 Mar 7 Feb21 Feb7 Jan24 Jan10 Dec27 Dec13 Nov29 Nov15 Nov1 Oct 18 Oct 4 Sep20 0.0% Sep6 10.0% Week Ending When prime ice time is considered (weekdays 3:30 pm to 10:30 pm, weekends 8:00 am to 10:30 pm), utilization is almost 100%. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 24 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Utilization of Prime Ice Time (including required flooding between sessions) 100.0% 90.0% 80.0% Utilization 70.0% 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 7 21 M ar M ar 7 21 F eb F eb 10 27 13 29 15 1 24 Ja n Ja n D ec D ec N ov N ov N ov O ct 18 O ct 4 20 S ep S ep 6 0.0% Week Ending The data summarized in preceding charts show that the arena ice currently serves over 2,000 persons of all age groups, making available a variety of sports and recreation activities. The facility operates at capacity and it is impossible to satisfy additional potential demand. During summer, ice is put in for the month of August, and is used by hockey schools. According to management there does not appear to be additional demand for this service. In the past the dry floor has not been promoted to recreation users. In 2009 it was used for the annual high school graduation and the annual Chamber of Commerce Trade Show. The grounds were used for an auto dealers’ show and a circus. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 25 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Financial Performance of Smithers’ Arena Assuming that the 2010 budget is achieved, revenues will have grown 6% over the past five years, from $184,000 to $195,000. Expenses grew by 11% from $395,000 to $437,000. Large contributors to the increase were staff costs and maintenance. Utility costs were stable. The net deficit was up 15%, from $211,000 to $243,000. However, this is reduced by the notional allocation of $60,000 to the arena from the $140,000 per year contributed by the Regional District under a Joint Use Agreement. Among others, this agreement covers the cost of ice usage by School District 54 and the Bulkley Valley Christian School. Arena Income Statements, 2006 to 2010 2009 Budget 2010 $ 187 2 2 3 $ 184 2 3 3 $ 186 2 4 3 $ 183 $ 194 $ 192 $ 195 200 26 41 25 40 42 20 223 25 28 25 46 43 18 208 28 37 24 51 39 28 225 29 34 23 57 30 24 238 28 40 25 52 30 24 Total Expenses $ 395 $ 409 $ 415 $ 422 $ 437 Net Operating Deficit Less notional share of Joint Use Agreement Payment $ 211 $ 226 $ 221 $ 230 $ 243 60 60 60 60 60 Net Deficit $ 151 $ 166 $ 161 $ 170 $ 183 2006 Actual 2007 2008 Revenue Total Ice Rental Dry Floor rental Grounds rental Advertizing/Concessions $ 177 2 3 2 $ 177 2 1 3 Total Revenue $ 184 Expenditure Labour & Benefits Hydro Natural Gas Water/Sewer/Garbage Maintenance Rental - Own Equipment Other Costs Totals may not balance due to rounding In addition to user fees, a reserve fee of $10 per hour is charged to adult users ($5 per hour for juniors). This fee was agreed to by users and is contributed to a “Second Sheet of Ice Future Operating Reserve Fund”. Since 2006 $47,000 has been collected with a further $13,000 budgeted for 2010 and 2011, when the agreement with users expires. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 26 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan The Terrace Example In order to learn about the potential impact of a new arena on users the consultants contacted the Town of Terrace which has recently expanded its Sportsplex. The old facility contained an arena, four small dressing rooms and a banquet room. The expansion added a second arena, five large dressing rooms, a conference room and two multi-purpose rooms. The cost was $8.9 million (including $1 million for parking and landscaping) for 37,284 square feet. The last full season for the old arena was 2005/6 and the first full year for the expanded facility was 2009/2010. The following table compares the old and new facilities: Impact of the Terrace Sportsplex Expansion % Increase Old Facility New Facility 104 2,614 573 151 4,168 911 45 % 59 % 59 % $ 156,600 6,400 5,700 $168,700 121,500 $ 290,200 $ 271,800 8,600 21,000 $ 301,400 151,300 $ 456,700 74 % 34 % 268 % 79 % 25 % 57 % Admin cost allocation Other Sportsplex expenses $ 100,000 586,400 $ 686,400 $ 137,500 836,000 $ 973,500 37 % 43 % 42 % Net deficit $ 396,200 $ 516,800 30 % 1 4 15 hr/wk 1 1 1 6 28 hr/wk 1 - Usage Average weekly ice hours Regular users - ice Regular users – dry floor Summary Income Statements Ice revenue Dry floor- lacrosse revenue Dry floor – events revenue Banquet, conference, meetings revenue Total Sportsplex revenues Staffing Management Maintenance – full time Maintenance – part time (ice time only) Programs staff – full time Program staff – part time bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. 50 % 87 % Page 27 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Arena revenues grew 79% after the expansion. Although some of this would be due to price increases the improvement is very significant. Overall, expenses for the Sportsplex increased 42%, some of which were the result of inflation. Although revenues for the arenas are separated from revenues for the rooms, the expenses are not split in this way. The expansion added two full time maintenance staff, and increased a part-timer from 15 hours to 28 hours per week, for ice time only. One part time program position was lost, but this occurred independently of the expansion. The service area of the Terrace Sportsplex is larger than that for Smithers as the 2006 census figures shows: City of Terrace RD Area C New Aiyansh 11,320 2,822 806 14,948 The service area population is 27% higher than for the Smithers arena (11,802). In addition 76% of Terrace’s service area population lives in the City, compared with only 44% for Smithers (Town population of 5,217). It follows that usage increases in Smithers are likely to be smaller than Terrace’s in both absolute and relative terms. Summary of Proposed Expansion The proposed expansion adds 30,000 square feet of space for a total project cost of $8.3 million. The space includes the NHL-sized ice surface, four change rooms, administrative offices and portable seating for 300. An option to expand the arena size by 3,400 square feet to add 550 seats would cost $800,000. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 28 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Capital and Funding Required Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc. has estimated that the total cost of a second sheet of ice and supporting infrastructure in Smithers will be $ 8.3 million including construction, site development allowances, soft costs and contingencies. This differs from costs that have been mentioned in the community, and it has been suggested that discussions with other communities in British Columbia, as well as in other provinces may be appropriate. For the purpose of this discussion, the consultants have used the BCA estimates. Over the years, the Town has successfully applied for Provincial Government funding for a second sheet of ice, and there has also been a number of other sources of revenue that could be applied to the project in order to reduce the capital costs. This information is summarized below. Present Secured Funding Second Sheet of Ice Committee Provincial Government grant (2006) Town of Smithers Capital Reserve Town of Smithers Loan Authorization Bylaw 1508 Total secured funding Less cost of current study Balance of secured funding $ 188,075 1,700,000 189,967 650,000 $ 2,728,042 29,000 $ 2, 699,042 Assuming that the cost of construction will be the amount estimated by BCA, an additional $5.6 million will be necessary to complete the project. This is summarized below. BCA Construction Estimate Less Balance of Secured Funding Balance Required to Finance Construction bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. $ 8,300,000 2,699,042 $ 5,600,058 Page 29 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Sources of Additional Funding The $5.6 million that is still required is a substantial amount of money, particularly when the secured funding already includes a $1.7 million grant from the Province. We suggest that there are four potential sources of funds that could be explored, including (1) an additional grant from senior levels of government (2) additional fund raising by the community, and in particular, the Second Sheet of Ice Committee (3) a second loan authorization bylaw (4) the reserve funded by the surcharge on ice rentals, as agreed with users, which is expected to amount to $73,000 at the end of 2011. With reference to each of the above, it should be noted that: • • • • The consultants are aware that a meeting involving local elected officials and the Province is being contemplated in order to discuss the possibility of Provincial assistance. We are, however, not aware of any substantial funding opportunities at the present time. Additional fund raising by the community is not likely to generate significant funds in comparison with the overall cost of the facility. However, specific initiatives to raise money for items such as seating, timing equipment, ice cleaning equipment and the like would certainly be encouraged. A loan authorization bylaw/referendum would provide the community with the best indication of support for a new facility. While relatively expensive, the results would suggest that it is time to proceed with this long anticipated amenity, or that interest in the proposal is premature. Assuming that this approach is necessary, the local Finance Department would have to provide details related to financial impacts on local residents and the business community. The reserve fund was established in an agreement between the Town and users who pay $10 per hour ($5 for juniors). Under the agreement the reserve is to be used to finance operating costs of the second sheet of ice. However, it is possible that users would be prepared to continue to contribute the funds to capital. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 30 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Recreation Impacts of the Expansion Because the ice is fully utilized, particularly during prime time, additional use may be expected from a second sheet of ice. Town Senior Management surveyed user groups asking whether they had enough ice time, and if not, to explain. Summarized responses are: • • • • • • • • • Minor Hockey (16 teams) reports inadequate time to run an effective coaching program, and SMHA had to live with what is available i.e. REP teams were given 1 practice a week because of these limitations. Women’s Hockey (2 teams) would definitely pick up one more ice time a week between 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm. Figure Skating (64 skaters) was not aware of skaters lost because of shortage of time. Rubber Puckers (50 players) expect they would use an extra daytime hour in the first two years, and 2 hours in the third. They can see an older age group, 65 plus, forming in the future for an additional hour of fun. Oldtimers (8 teams) in recent years have lost the equivalent of one team (15-20 players) because of the late (10:45 pm) game time, and having to work the next day. “There is little doubt we would be able to attract additional players if the ice time were earlier in the season”. St. Joseph’s School (184 skaters) have had years when they did not skate because of lack of ice time. “More of our classes would skate if the times were available”. BVHA Juniors (40 players) has had a very stable membership. “Obviously our numbers could be higher, because of our early morning ice time. …. the time is very unattractive” Recreation League cannot say how many people do not play because of the time. School District 54 (736 skaters), Ebenezer School (148 skaters) and Bulkley Valley Christian School (120 skaters) did not respond. However, it is possible, as for St. Joseph’s School that more ice time would be used if it were available at times convenient for the schools. The 2004 Lions Gate study conducted a thorough survey of users and found that non-minor hockey players were interested in a 32% increase in use. Minor hockey players indicated a 38% increase in use. At the same time, the survey indicated a willingness to pay between 15% and 29% higher fees to get more ice time. The economy is in worse shape currently than it was in 2004, so willingness to pay higher fees may be lower now than it was in 2004. However, users are already paying a reserve fee (8% of the rental charge) in anticipation of a second sheet of ice, so it is reasonable to expect that this willingness would at least continue, and possibly increase if a second sheet is actually available. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 31 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan In Terrace ice hours usage increased by 45%, the number of users was 59% up and ice revenues were 74% up. We would not expect the same level of increase in Smithers. The new ice would be more attractive to residents who live in the town, rather than out of town, and the Terrace service area has a higher percentage of town dwellers than does Smithers (76% vs. 44%). Combining additional use with the willingness to pay more, the 2004 study assumed revenue increases from 2003 levels of 43% (conservative case) and 72% (optimistic case). The optimistic case is similar to the experience in Terrace. Taking the economy and the Terrace experience into account, we assume 30% (conservative) and 50% (optimistic) ice revenue increases from budgeted 2010 levels. For dry floor revenues we assume lower growth. However, two arenas will permit the Town to host and to earn revenue from minor hockey tournaments (bantam, midgets and juniors) and figure skating competitions. Provincial sports governing bodies require that host communities provide at least two arenas for such events. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 32 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Financial Impacts The following table summarizes the financial impacts of adding the second sheet if ice. A second sheet of ice is projected to increase the net cost to the Town by $98,000 to $122,000 per year. Total expenses are expected to increase by 46% (conservative case) or 49% (optimistic case). In Terrace costs grew 42% between 2006 and 2009. The Terrace increase in usage was for a greater increase than projected for Smithers. In addition, some of the Terrace growth was related to inflation, and the costs included conference and meeting rooms that Smithers does not have. Arenas Operating Estimates – 2010 $’000 Budget 2010 Projections Conservative Optimistic Revenue Total Ice Rental Dry Floor rental Grounds rental Advertizing/Concessions Total Revenue $ 186 2 4 3 $ 195 $ 242 4 4 3 $ 253 $ 279 6 4 4 $ 293 Expenditure Labour & Benefits Hydro Natural Gas Water/Sewer/Garbage Maintenance Rental - Own Equipment Other Costs Total Expenses 238 28 40 25 52 30 24 $ 437 333 56 80 30 78 30 30 $ 637 343 56 80 35 78 30 30 $ 652 Net Operating Deficit Less notional share of Joint Use Agreement Payment $ 243 $ 384 $ 359 60 60 60 Net Deficit Increased Tax Burden $ 183 $ 324 $ 141 $ 299 $ 116 Totals may not balance due to rounding bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 33 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Based on the experience of Terrace, the above projections are reasonable. They are based on the following assumptions: • • • • • • • • • • Ice Revenues increase 30% in the conservative case and 50% in the optimistic case. At least 8% of these could come from rolling in revenue the present reserve fee that users are already accustomed to paying. The additional 20% to 40% would come from increased usage and higher rates. Dry Floor Rentals assume that the facility keeps the high school graduation and Chamber of Commerce events. It also expects that the Town attract other recreational uses, such as lacrosse (which last year contributed $8,000 to the Terrace Sportsplex). The Town would also qualify to host minor hockey tournaments and figure skating competitions. The facility would not attract concerts or conferences because the seating configuration would not be suitable. We assume that under the conservative case revenues would increase by $2,000 per year. Under the optimistic case the increase is $4,000. Grounds Rentals assume that events such as the Auto Show and Circus, or similar, will continue to be attracted to the grounds, or inside. Advertizing/Concessions are assumed to continue, at least at current levels, with a possible small increase in the optimistic case. Labour and Benefits. In Terrace, direct operating staffing during ice time increased from 4 to 6 FTEs. In addition part time hours were increased from 15 to 28 per week. This is an effective increase of 53% which we consider to be a reasonable increase for Smithers. Of the $238,000 labour and benefit costs in 2010, $182,000 is budgeted for regular hours of 4 FTEs during the winter season (the remainder is allocated administration, supervision and summer ice). For the conservative case we assume the regular hour cost to increase by 53%. In the optimistic case we add $10,000 to account for higher janitorial costs from more users. Hydro and Natural gas costs are assumed to double because of the doubled space and ice-making requirements. Water, Sewer and Garbage costs vary with ice flooding and the number of users. Because higher fees are expected, the increase in ice time and users would be less than the assumed increase in ice revenue. We assume that these utilities will increase by 20% and 40% in the two cases projected. Maintenance costs will increase, but the new facility will be much cheaper to maintain. We assume a 50% increase in each case. Rental – Own Equipment is an internal charge for the two Zambonis. One is being replaced and it is considered that the two machines could service two sheets of ice. We are advised that the internal charge will not increase. Other costs include advertising, insurance, skate patrol, travel and telephone. They are relatively fixed, except for skate patrol, and are assumed to increase by 25% for each case. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 34 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Tax Impacts Total 2010 general purpose tax revenues are $3,182,722. Additional revenue requirements of $141,000 (conservative case) would increase this by 4.430%. Additional revenue requirements of $116,000 (optimistic case) would increase tax requirements by 3.645%. The impact on 2010 tax rates would be the following: Current Tax Mil Rate Conservative Case Residential Business % Increase 3.264747 4.430 % 11.160321 4.430 % 3.264747 3.645 % 11.160321 3.645 % Rate Increase 0.14462 8 0.49440 2 Average Property Value - $ Average Tax Increase $ 209,265 1 $ 30 $ 283,066 $ 140 $ 209,265 $ 25 $ 283,066 $ 115 Optimistic case Residential Business 1 0.11900 0 0.40679 4 Single Family Dwelling The projections indicate that the projected increased arena deficits can be covered by a tax increase on the average single family dwelling of $30 (conservative case) or $25 (optimistic case). The required increase for the average business would be $140 and $115. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 35 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 6 business plan Longer Term Replacement Costs In addition to routine maintenance costs, the Town will be faced with major replacement expenditures as building systems reach the end of their useful life. The timing of these depends on the age of the building system, the initial quality, its expected life and on maintenance standards. The following table summarizes projected system replacement costs for the existing arena, in 5-year time periods. Replacement expenditures for the new arena will start in 20 to 25 years after construction. Please note that these are rough estimates. Appendix E contains charts illustrating the life cycles of the building systems in the new and proposed arenas. Projected Replacement Costs for Major Building Systems – 2010 $’000 System Architectural Doors Roof Concrete partitions Wood partitions Stairs, guards, rails Skate floor Dasher boards Partitions/accessories Structural Concrete foundations Concrete slab-on grade Concrete floor slab Refrigeration slab Ext concrete walls Superstructure wood Mechanical HVAC Refrigeration general Refrigeration chiller Sprinklers Plumbing Electrical (all systems) Now 2015 60 100 10 60 Totals bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc 2020 10 50 100 150 50 20 200 100 50 101 36 8 771 276 58 Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. 2025 Page 36 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 7 conclusions 7.1 Business Plan Conclusions There is no doubt that a second sheet of ice would be well used, and the higher operating deficits could be covered by tax increases of pennies a day for the average single family dwelling taxpayer. Nevertheless, it is evident that a significant amount of money will have to be generated in order to construct the facility. Only 33% of the capital cost is available, including funds from the proceeds of the current Reserve Fee. Other sources, including local taxpayers, must be approached in order to generate the balance of funds required to build the facility. The Province has already made a grant to Smithers as a contribution to financing the project. The Province has subsequently turned down a subsequent request for additional funding, but there is certainly no problem in making a further request. However, the likelihood of success is certainly not guaranteed. It should also be noted that during the research component of the study, several organizations raised valid points regarding the need for other amenities in the community, such as multipurpose and gymnasium space, and an indoor walking area. These amenities were not the subjects of this report. 7.2 Report Conclusions The Town of Smithers – SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBLIITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN represents a significant effort on the part of the Town of Smithers, its residents and surrounding communities to realize their desire for improved recreation offerings and facilities in Smithers by creating a multiuse recreation multiplex. Through an integrated, iterative process which included a number of meetings with the Steering Committee, stakeholder and user groups and two public Open Houses, a Preferred Option was developed that would see the twinning of the existing ice arena with an NHL-sized ice sheet, new change rooms and portable seating for 300 spectators. This cost-effective addition to the Smithers Arena would address the Town’s desire for increased ice time now, while allowing for future addtions of multipurpose and gymnasium space. A detailed business plan, completed by Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants put this plan in persepective for the Smithers’ community. This comprhensive report arms the Town of Smithers with the information necessary to pursue future funding opportunities and make a reality its desire for a refreshed, rejuvinated campus of recreation faclities in Smithers. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. Page 37 Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN 6 July 2010 8 appendices The following appendices provide supplementary information and record documents for the project. Appendix A Appendix B Appendix C Appendix D Appendix E Project Directory and Meeting Notes User Group Meeting Notes Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Open House Survey Results Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Presentation Panels Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Life Expectancy and Maintenance Review Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc. bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd. APPENDIX A project directory and meeting notes Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN www.carscadden.ca MEETING RECORD No. 1 604.633.1830 phone 604.633.1809 fax 715 East Hastings St., Vancouver BC V6A 1R3 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc COURIER POST EMAIL TO PAGE(S) INCLUDING THIS PAGE Town of Smithers Attn: Andrew Hillaby, Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture [email protected] Box 879, 1027 Aldous Street Smithers BC V0J 2N0 CC Bill Webster PERC FROM Bruce Carscadden PROJECT SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT – Feasibility Study & Business Plan DATE 25 September 2009 MAIBC REMARKS TELEPHONE AGENDA Friday 2:00pm ITEM ACTION BY 1.0 Introductions 1.1 INTRODUCTIONS - Project Directory will be circulated. INFO 1.2 CONTRACT – has been executed and returned. closed 2.0 Methodology 2.1 METHODOLGY: The following steps will be reviewed: 1. Information Gathering 2. Review and Analysis 3. Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization program development, focus groups, facilty summit, open house events 4. Concept Options 5. Identification of the Preferred Option 6. Capital and Operating Estimates for preferred option the business plan, project delivery considerations 7. Draft and Final Report 3.0 Information Gathering 3.1 EXISTING DRAWINGS, PHOTOS, REPORTS 1. Existing reports, recommendations, assumptions 2. Demographic information 3. Mapping, site information for each possible site 4. Precedents 5. Arena plans INFO INFO bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc DATE: 25 September, 2009 PAGE: 2 of 2 3.2 TOUR OF SITE – a tour of the site and arena. INFO 3.3 PUBLIC INPUT - Gauging local interest in an multiplex facility (open house) 4.0 Schedule 4.1 TIME-LINE – project time line, mile stones, important dates INFO 4.2 NEXT MEETING – October 13th 2009 afternoon. INFO BRUCE CARSCADDEN ARCHITECT INC PERC Bruce Carscadden, MAIBC Bill Webster www.carscadden.ca MEETING RECORD No. 2 604.633.1830 phone 604.633.1809 fax 715 East Hastings St., Vancouver BC V6A 1R3 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc COURIER POST EMAIL TO PAGE(S) INCLUDING THIS PAGE Town of Smithers Attn: Andrew Hillaby, Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture [email protected] Box 879, 1027 Aldous Street Smithers BC V0J 2N0 CC Bill Webster PERC FROM Bruce Carscadden PROJECT SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT – Feasibility Study & Business Plan DATE 13 October 2009 MAIBC REMARKS AGENDA Tuesday 1:00pm ITEM ACTION BY 1.0 Introductions 1.1 INTRODUCTIONS INFO 1.2 CONTRACT – has been executed and returned. closed 2.0 Methodology 2.1 METHODOLGY: The following steps will be reviewed: 1. Information Gathering 2. Review and Analysis 3. Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization program development, focus groups, facility summit, open house events list of local groups, 4. Concept Options 5. Identification of the Preferred Option 6. Capital and Operating Estimates for preferred option the business plan, project delivery considerations 7. Draft and Final Report 3.0 Information Gathering INFO bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc DATE: 13 October, 2009 PAGE: 2 of 3 3.1 EXISTING DRAWINGS, PHOTOS, REPORTS 1) 2) 3) 4) 5) 3.2 INFO Existing reports received include: Recreation master Plan 1998-2002 outdoor recreation master plan 1988 arena building condition assessment 1998 Arena Energy Review - Prism Report Demographic information received: Demographics Excerpt OCP DRAFT.pdf Mapping and site information received: Heritage Park In-house concept 2008 Utilities plan air photo Precedents Bedford, Halifax Captain William Spry Arena plans PROGRAM – a preliminary program based on the RFP and our conversations 25 Sept 09 INFO 1. Ice Arena Second ice sheet, as close as possible to the existing facility, unsure about seating capacity; is a higher level of hockey coming to town 2. Gymnasium: volley ball, basket ball, single perhaps a double gym, 3. Youth Centre: dedicated youth space 4. Large Concession - 13,600 sq.ft.?Food services, but the community doesn't want to compete with local hotels 5. Multipurpose Rooms: Additional mulit-purpose space, perhaps 3 additional rooms, with approximately 800 sq.ft each 6. Indoor Track: An indoor walking area, but not necessarily an "oval", interconnected hallways 7. Lobby: Connection to the existing arena, curling rink and pool, circulation and storage space Notes: Seniors space - might have this type of space already, walking No fitness centre 3.3 SITE OBJECTIVES – interconnect pool, arena and multipurpose recreation space INFO 3.4 TOUR OF SITE – a tour of the site and arena. INFO bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc DATE: 13 October, 2009 PAGE: 3 of 3 3.5 PUBLIC INPUT - Gauging local interest in an multiplex facility 1. Five to ten focus groups: individual facility users (not necessarily part of a group); Smithers staff; local agencies (seniors, youth, health); Chamber of commerce; social service agencies; user groups (one or more meetings with user groups) 2. Facility summit – leaders and staff from up to 6 other communities that have designed and built a similar facility in recent years. 3. Open House Events (one or two): all concept drawings and project information, including suggested features and costs, as well as a preferred option; consultants present to respond to questions and explain concepts; event(s) to include a questionnaire that the public would be asked to respond to. 4.0 Schedule 4.1 TIME-LINE – project time line, mile stones, important dates Information Gathering September Review and Analysis October Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization October to March Concept Options November and January Identification of the Preferred Option January to March Capital and Operating Estimates for preferred option February to March Draft and Final Report End of March, Early April INFO 4.2 NEXT MEETING – tbc. INFO BRUCE CARSCADDEN ARCHITECT INC PERC Bruce Carscadden, MAIBC Bill Webster www.carscadden.ca MEETING RECORD No. 3 604.633.1830 phone 604.633.1809 fax # 715 East Hastings St., Vancouver BC V6A 1R3 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc COURIER POST EMAIL PAGE(S) INCLUDING THIS PAGE Town of Smithers Attn: Andrew Hillaby, Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture [email protected] Box 879, 1027 Aldous Street Smithers BC V0J 2N0 TO CC Bill Webster PERC FROM Bruce Carscadden PROJECT SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT – Feasibility Study & Business Plan DATE 7 December 2009 MAIBC REMARKS The following is a brief record of our meeting Monday 20 February 2006 at the Winfield Town Hall. PRESENT Andrew Hillaby Bill Webster Monty Holding Bruce Carscadden, Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Town of Smithers (ToS), Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd (PERC) Professional Environmental Recreation Consultants Ltd (PERC) Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc (BCA) ITEM ACTION BY 1.0 Introductions 1.1 INTRODUCTIONS : introductions where made as noted above 1.2 MEETINGS: The following schedule of users group meeting is proposed to occur over the next two days: Nov 30 lunch meeting with Council 1145-1245 focus group 2-3 pm focus group 330-430 dinner 430-530 focus group 530-630 focus group 730-830 Dec 1 focus group 10:30-11:30 Senior Management 1130 to 12:30 focus group 2:00 – 3:00 pm focus group 3:30-4:30 focus group 5:30-6:30 debrief 6:30-7:30 INFO bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc DATE: 7 December, 2009 PAGE: 2 of 2 2.0 Methodology 2.1 ARCHITECTURAL: BCA presented three panels dated 30 November 2009, Site Analysis, Program and Precedents prefacing them with the comments that the purpose of the meetings was to solicit feedback and that the material was intended as a starting point for discussion. INFO 2.2 RECREATION: PERC with Andrew’s assistance table a list of questions to be explored with the focus group participants. INFO 3.0 Information Gathering 3.1 PUBLIC INPUT - Gauging local interest in a multiplex facility: A summary of comments and input are appended, Discussions with Community Organizations (November 30 and December 1st) are appended. INFO 3.2 TOUR OF SITE – a tour of the site and arena was undertaken by the consultants independently. INFO 4.0 Schedule 4.1 NEXT MEETING and PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE: ToS ToS suggested that the concepts options would be presented to the public in January 2011 prior to the Olympics. Suggested date 25 January 2001. ToS to confirm. 4.1 TIME-LINE – project time line, mile stones, important dates Information Gathering September (completed) Review and Analysis October (completed) Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization October to March (current) Concept Options November and January Identification of the Preferred Option January to March Capital and Operating Estimates for preferred option February to March Draft and Final Report End of March, Early April INFO 4.2 NEXT MEETING – Concepts Options would be presented to the public in January 2011 prior to the Olympics. Suggested date 25 January 2001. ToS to confirm. INFO BRUCE CARSCADDEN ARCHITECT INC PERC Bruce Carscadden, MAIBC Bill Webster www.carscadden.ca MEETING RECORD No. 4 604.633.1830 phone 604.633.1809 fax 715 East Hastings Vancouver BC V6A 1R3 bruce carscadden ARCHITECT inc COURIER POST FAX PAGE(S) INCLUDING THIS PAGE Town of Smithers TO Attn: Andrew Hillaby, Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture [email protected] Box 879, 1027 Aldous Street CC Smithers BC V0J 2N0 Bill Webster PERC FROM Bruce Carscadden MAIBC PROJECT SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT Feasibility Study & Business Plan 9 February, 2010 DATE REMARKS The following is a brief record of our meeting Thursday 4 February 2010 at the Smithers Town Hall. PRESENT Cress Farrow Lorne Benson Joanne Groves Deborah Sargent Mark Allen Andrew Hillaby Leslie Ford Wilf Takeima Mayor Councilor Councilor Chief Administrative Officer Director of Development Services Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture Director of Finance Director of Works and Operations Bruce Carscadden Matt Halverson Bill Webster Bruce Carscadden Architect (BCA) Bruce Carscadden Architect (BCA) PERC ITEM ACTION BY 1.0 INTRODUCTIONS 1.1 Introductions were made as noted above. info bruce Carscadden ARCHITECT inc DATE: 9 February, 2010 PAGE: 2 of 3 2.0 DISCUSSION 2.1 BCA presented an analysis of the existing arena, curling rink and aquatic centre site, along with a number of precedents from other communities, and an overview of some of the features and technical requirements of a recreation multiplex. info Each of four Concept Options were then presented and Council was advised that they would be reviewed with members of the public during the evening Public Open House. These included the following: Option One - A single gymnasium, multi-purpose space, and connections to the aquatic centre and curling rink. Option Two - The addition of a second sheet of NHL ice, with shared change rooms and modest seating. Option Three - An addition that includes a gymnasium, multi-purpose rooms and second sheet of ice with spectator seating for approximately 1,000 to 1,200 people. Option Four - A two storey footprint including a second sheet or ice, double gym, multi-purpose rooms, expanded lobby/reception area, fitness room and connections to the curling rink and aquatic centre. 2.2 Councilors asked a number of questions regarding each of the options and it was indicated that the maximum amount of money that might be available was likely in the range of $10,000,000. It was also mentioned that the project would undoubtedly have to go to referendum, and that Electoral Area A and the Town of Smithers would have to part of the referendum. info It was also noted that the Town has other capital projects that are currently under consideration, including a new Library and Art Gallery, as well as other infrastructure requirements. Each of these could compete with the expansion and improvements to the community complex. It was suggested that the most important community needs should be addressed, and if necessary, the project could be developed in more than one phase. 2.3 The consultants explained that they would make a similar presentation to the Open House participants, and utilize a questionnaire to gather further information from those who attend the afternoon and evening meetings. (A summary of the questionnaire responses attached) Following the Open House, the consultants will prepare two additional options for discussion with the Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture, and ultimately with Council. These discussions should take place within the next month, and result in a preferred option, detailed costs and the development of a Business Plan. info bruce Carscadden ARCHITECT inc DATE: 9 February, 2010 PAGE: 3 of 3 3.0 SCHEDULE 3.1 TIME-LINE – project time line, mile stones, important dates Information Gathering September (completed) Review and Analysis October (completed) Community Needs Assessment and Service Prioritization October to March (current) Concept Options November and January (completed) Identification of the Preferred Option January to March (current) Capital and Operating Estimates for preferred option February to March Draft and Final Report End of March, Early April NEXT MEETING – Preferred Options may be presented in March; date to be determined. 3.2 info info These notes are considered an accurate account of subjects discussed and decisions reached during the meeting. Please advise the writer in writing of any errors or omissions. BRUCE CARSCADDEN ARCHITECT INC PERC Bruce Carscadden, MAIBC Bill Webster APPENDIX B user group meeting notes Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN SMITHERS COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES Monday November 30, 2009 at 12:00 pm. In attendance: Smithers Council Members Andrew Hillaby – Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Comments: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Very, very careful on maintenance costs (ie. Pool Study) Sport minimum requirements need to be met at the beginning of any forecasts Leisure versus competitive Economic benefits – need to be aware of opportunities What are the possible returns in terms of revenue Business case – rate of return Information for Council (past studies) Impact of library study/library Referendum? Lacrosse Other groups do not want to lose their members Is there capacity for volunteers, tournaments, instructors Impact of present multitude of program choices Remember we are 5,000 people Present arena is getting older Outdoor arena idea (past) Connecting facilities difficult School Board and College support is needed Partner pays share SD 54 needs a facility Design should include pool heat recovery Ideas to save costs Construction Costs huge concern Local should be able to be more reasonable cost Concern about Government process Concern about Architect “flagship design” Dawson Creek facility concerns / risk Present facility – beams are great but washrooms & showers not adequate Repair and maintenance plan needs to include deferred maintenance & operating maintenance Concerns about what is put into the Ranger Park Building Design Build a good process (ie. Town Hall) User group access to additional funds (Wetsuwetin) Can additional user groups afford rent? Any options for the Curling rink • • • • • • • • • • • • • Need good acoustics and seating for at least 300 for concerts. Trade show possibilities Speed skating Dawson creek complex walking track & Prince George University Concession location needs to avoid congestion Commercial kitchen and possible revenue opportunities? Arts and Culture REM Theatre example Need to seat 750 to 1,000 Curtain down to change size Seating on one side Pack Granisle to Smithers for arena Demographics of age groups o School down o Seniors up o Upcoming growth??? Mackenzie facility SMITHERS COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES Monday November 30, 2009 at 3:30 pm. In attendance: Bruce Carscadden – Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Bill Webster – PERC Monty Holding – PERC Andrew Hillaby – Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Jim Cameron – Smithers Senior Secondary John Wreggitt – Smithers Second Sheet of Ice Committee Marium Colvin – Myriad Dance Projects Kathy Spiro – Smithers Gallery Association Jess Huddleston – Adult Art Classes Comments: • • • • • • • • • • • Adult art would like a large room with counter and sink with adequate storage (1,000 sq. ft.) Art Gallery does not anticipate using facilities in a new recreation complex. They would like more space, kitchen in their current location. Like the idea of integrated recreation facilities including library and museum. Smithers does need new additional facilities. Dance group would make use of space in a new community centre. Dance needs a large open rectangular space (2,000 sq. ft.) with appropriate flooring, natural light, welcoming atmosphere, no mirrors, no “off gas” materials, no box buildings and a small kitchen to provide some food. The Smithers Second Ice Sheet Committee is particularly interested in the second ice sheet including improved change rooms, continued use of the old arena, NHL size, viewing area and seating for about 200. Hockey would make use of dry floor spaces for dry land training. The High School is like a community centre but unable to serve all requests or needs. Bus students to other community facilities to fulfill their PE requirements. The community is short of sports fields, gym space and an all weather field? Some sports are not currently accommodated such as rugby, storage is limited, some current fields are inadequate, all but the high school gym are inadequate for the major of requested uses. Bleachers are important in a full size gym for spectators at games. • General concerns within the community include: o Increased taxes o It will not benefit me o Operating costs o The second sheet will serve a small interest group o There should be no compromises • General positive comments: o Hang out ability of a community centre o Gathering place o Arena – multipurpose use such as grad, music, performance and theatre o Indoor play ground ( winter community) o Cultural space o Beautiful space, no ugly buildings SMITHERS COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES Monday November 30, 2009 at 7:30 pm. In attendance: Bruce Carscadden – Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Bill Webster – PERC Monty Holding – PERC Andrew Hillaby – Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Ian Grieve – Old timers Hockey League John Wreggitt – Smithers Second Sheet of Ice Committee Kelly Ehalt – Smithers Merchants Mike Bundock – Men’s Old Timers Hockey League Erin Rowsell – Secretary of Phase I Committee Scott Rowsell – Smithers Minor Hockey Sylvia Ripmeester – Christian Kids Hockey Comments: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • Christian Kids Hockey needs more ice time. Ice time is needed by all ice users but would like the gym as well. The merchants would like the long term benefits of a multiplex facility for conventions and large scale events. The Old Timers Hockey would like the added ice sheet, the gym and the indoor walking option. Women’s hockey is growing and all teams would like better ice times. Not so early and not so late. Sport tourism opportunities are attractive. Minor Hockey has 200 to 250 kids playing currently and need more ice time. Second sheet allows opportunity to host more and bigger tournaments which are important for small communities to provide new competition. Girl’s hockey is also growing but is limited due to lack of available ice time. Other ice activities looking for more ice or in some cases ice to start their programs including speed skating, ringette, rep teams. The current ice sheet is used from 6:00 am until 12:00 am daily. A second rink with concession, foyer, change rooms, 250 seats. The existing arena is structurally sound and seats 800 plus spectators. Question the low use of the curling rink and how to justify its subsidy. Should be building for the future. • In addition the facilities should include the following amenities: o Washrooms o Concession o Change rooms o 8 dressing rooms in total o Dry land training space o Teaching rooms for clinics, warm up o Summer and/or spring ice for hockey and figure skating schools o Over ice dry floor opportunities. o Be aware of operating costs. o Dedicated office space. o First aid room. • Other features mentioned: o Theatre o Double gym for basketball, volleyball, badminton o User fees are very reasonable currently o Commercial kitchen o Viewing area o Larger concession, pub food service, beer garden o Youth space o Racquets sports o Boxing SMITHERS COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES Tuesday December 1, 2009 at 10:30 am. In Attendance: Bruce Carscadden – Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Bill Webster – PERC Monty Holding – PERC Andrew Hillaby – Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Regina Saimoto – Northwest Community College Lisa Perry – Bulkley Valley Cross Country Ski Club Comments: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • The cross country ski club would like dry land training in a gym like setting of about 1,000 sq. ft. They would require a space where a couple of pieces of exercise equipment could be wall mounted and be available to the general public as well. They currently have 700 members of all ages providing excellent fitness opportunity. They are using the Long Term Athlete Development Guide as a program philosophy. It promotes activity for life, a sustainable activity. The College has over 200 students aged 18 and up. They provide outreach programs. Would like to see reduced fees for their students. Their new development at the College will include a gathering place to accommodate 100 to 150 people in the spring of 2010. They would like to see a young adult / youth centre near the College for young people to gather. Feel that a transportation system to bring Smithers and close neighbours to the recreation facilities would be good. General feeling for more ice times and more suitable ice times (no early mornings and no late evenings). Lack of facilities makes meeting school mandate for daily physical activity challenging. Need for convenient and organized storage space to save set up time. Programming of recreation spaces lead to social group gatherings. No new recreation space anticipated at the College. Need for inventory of existing gyms to avoid unnecessary facility duplication. The pool does not present a fun atmosphere to attract participants. The High School facilities are being used to capacity. Suggest a recreation website that links all the recreation providers and programs. Ensure that all residents are ensured affordable opportunity. Recreation provides great health benefits for the entire community. SMITHERS COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES Tuesday December 1, 2009 at 2:00 pm. In Attendance: Bruce Carscadden – Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Bill Webster – PERC Monty Holding – PERC Andrew Hillaby – Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Tyler Dykens – Figure Skating Jeanien Carmody-Fallows – Figure Skating Charlie Northrup – Smithers Council Dana Gorbath – High Road Services Cathy L’Orsa - Smithers Senior Secondary PE Comments: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • High Road Services for people with disabilities use the pool and curling rink extensively. A bigger pool would be much better. Pool change rooms and fitness room are too small. Gym space for kids and women. After school sports. Large gym, perhaps double gym, with wood floor would be a great addition. Elementary School gyms are too small and have inappropriate flooring for many activities. Many facilities lack lobby or mezzanine space, storage and washrooms. Skate Canada wants 2 sheets of ice to hold figure skating competitions. Figure skating changing and warm up area. Improved sound system. Figure skating participation is down from 130 – 150 to a current registration of 48. Gaming grants have been reduced and will be further reduced next season resulting in higher user fees. New facilities should not erode existing facilities. Collaborate with schools for financial support: o Evening social life o Subsidies o Existing joint use agreements with schools o Youth versus adult subsidies • • • • • • • • • • • • • Who should operate youth space: o Public o Recreation department o Service group Concern for the structure of youth program Provides option for youth without interest in sports Organized sports need spectator bleachers. Kelowna’s H2O facility. Hockey and arenas are to Canada as gyms might be to America. Food and beverage service for banquets, beer gardens for adult hockey tournaments, minor hockey concession can generate revenue. Indoor children play facility. Discussion about fees and charges, costs of operations and the value of facilities to the community as a whole. Gym should provide multipurpose/universal space to ensure facility is well used by the largest number of people. Commercial kitchen for banquets, catering which are available elsewhere in town. A kitchen server may be an alternative thought. Limitations in arena area with fire suppression requirements for kitchen equipment. Overlooking viewing area. SMITHERS COMMUNITY GROUP MEETING NOTES Tuesday December 1, 2009 at 3:30 pm. In Attendance: Bruce Carscadden – Bruce Carscadden Architect Inc Bill Webster – PERC Monty Holding – PERC Andrew Hillaby – Director of Recreation, Parks and Culture Tyler Ferster – Smithers Slo Pitch & Minor Hockey Officials John Wreggitt – Smithers Second Ice Sheet Ryan Coltura – BV Pool & Recreation Centre Heather Gallagher – Smithers District Chamber of Commerce David McKenzie – Smithers District Chamber of Commerce Len Dohler – BV Otters Swim Club Corrane Dohler – BV Otters Swim Club Amelia Mattson – BV Pool & Recreation Centre Bernard Mattie – Smithers Judo Club Bill Jex – Smithers Junior Softball Jason Kennedy – Smithers Junior Softball Comments: • • Swim club o Limited lane space o No expansion options o Limited dry land space o Limited space in the fitness room o Limited hours of operation Chamber of Commerce o Limited access to the pool o Curling rink disjointed from other functions o Need adequate space for drama and music with appropriate acoustics o Recreation is important to business o Convention facilities with large space, breakout rooms, midsized meeting rooms and commercial kitchen • • • • Bulkley Valley Pool o Consolidate functions o Pool is at capacity o Fitness studio is inappropriately located and is too small o Class room space is needed o Multipurpose space o Day care space Slo Pitch o Loss of Heritage Park field is a 20% loss of facility o Indoor training area skill development in winter o Need to develop new ball fields o Lighting on 2 fields o 180 -220 participants in each of adult and junior softball/slo pitch (360 – 440 total) o Improvements to other fields o All weather field with cover o Elks location to develop a complex idea Judo Club o Special mats o Sprung floor (12 mtr X 10 mtr) o Kids and adult programs o Need mats, space and change rooms o Need 2 areas 13 mtr X 13 mtr for tournaments o Need better program times o Currently 2 days in Smithers and 2 days in Hazelton o Operate September through June General o Walking track / mall walking o Top notch facility but affordable o Smart space o Indoor recreation space APPENDIX C open house survey results Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN TOWN OF SMITHERS MULTIPLEX RECREATION FACILITY FEASIBILITY STUDY PUBLIC OPEN HOUSE – THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2010 This document provides a summary of the results of an Open House Survey that was conducted on Thursday, February 4th at Smithers City Hall. In total, there were 28 completed surveys, and it is estimated that a total of 35 people attended the event. 1. Would you like to see a new multiplex facility built in Smithers? 1. YES 2. NO 3. UNSURE 21 2 4 2. What type of information would help you make a decision regarding a new multiplex? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. CONSTRUCTION COSTS OPERATING COSTS LOCATION POSSIBLE PARTNERSHIPS REGIONAL DISTRICT PARTICIPATION IMPACT ON LOCAL TAXATION OTHER • • • • • • • • • • TOWN OF SMITHERS 14 10 4 8 15 13 8 Impact on other user groups (i.e. softball) and potential for tournaments Don’t care – we need it What facilities will the complex have? If we have the community behind us we can do it Consider partnerships with School District and First Nations This is not a Smithers’ project; I will pay more taxes to get it User fees; cost per square foot Partnerships with user groups Regional District participation is expected; possible partnerships would be important Whatever is built should have the ability to generate revenue directly or indirectly Page 1/4 3. Which of the Concept Options, if any, do you prefer? 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. OPTION ONE OPTION TWO OPTION THREE OPTION FOUR NONE OF THE ABOVE OTHER • • • • • • • • • • • TOWN OF SMITHERS 4 1 13 6 1 Make south wall of new arena one surface – re-align gym and lobby Re-alignment would installation of a glass wall next to the walking fro viewing from the new rink to the old one Include curling club along with Option 4 Spread seating into the gym area Option 1 is the cheapest and has a gymnasium Start with a 4 court gym and public event room Only need one sheet of ice – the new one Option 3 is beautiful, but expensive; too costly unless facility becomes a conference centre Need to have space for pre-schoolers/play groups A hybrid of Option 3 or 4 would work, with second ice sheet Consider constructing a sheet of ice with a building large enough to add seating at a later date when there are grants available Page 2/4 4. Which, if any, of the following amenities, would you like to see in a multiplex recreation complex in Smithers? 1. NONE – DON’T NEED ADDITIONAL FACILITIES 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. FITNESS CENTRE GYMNASIUM (basketball, volleyball, badminton, etc.) MULTI-PURPOSE MEETING ACTIVITY SPACE YOUTH CENTRE SENIORS CENTRE INDOOR RUNNING/WALKING TRACK SECOND ICE SHEET IMPROVED ENTRANCE LOBBY IMPROVEMENTS TO THE EXISTING ICE SHEET IMPROVED DRESSING ROOMS ACCESS TO THE AQUATIC CENTRE ACCESS TO THE CURLING RINK OTHER • • • • • • • • • • • • 2 10 18 15 11 5 12 14 10 8 10 6 4 Gym should be double-wide Track should be above gymnasium Improve viewing as well Better heating system for spectators; day care area Turn the lobby into a public living room Include the library – build the new one where more clients will visit it We should go for Option 4, but we also need better access to the curling rink and aquatic centre Gym for ultimate frisbee during the winter A new sheet of ice – just one sheet is needed Indoor pre-school space – accessible throughout the day Commercial kitchen to cater to small events Prefer Option 3; it is very important to look to the future needs of a community – that is why it makes sense; it would allow the community to generate revenue from the new ice surface with seating; concerts and many other revenue generating events would be possible 5. Do you have any other comments regarding a new multiplex in Smithers? • • • • • • TOWN OF SMITHERS By re-aligning the gym and lobby, you reduce the impact to the existing ball diamonds; minor ball needs these fields Consider features that would allow the entire community to come together for events Encourage the whole community and different cultures to participate in activities We may only have one opportunity in our “user time” to build and improve an important infrastructure that will have positive impacts in our town, northern BC and all who visit. If we are going to do this, then do it well Project costs have to be affordable A grand idea – makes sense to include all activities in the same complex to offset operating costs Page 3/4 • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 5. Can we afford this at this time? Isn’t the town’s infrastructure more important? Think about pool improvements Gym is a must; build it cheap; build it fast Good job; realistic costing It has to be accessible Positive; economic benefits related to events and health, especially with a rubberized walking track for seniors and strollers; engagement of youth in activity and an environment that will be positive for their development, and particularly for youth who cannot afford activities like hockey, gymnastics, etc. Do it right the first time Good ideas – we have to pay for them Economically enhance the existing facility and add youth centre, indoor track and access to pool Thanks for the effort and information Option 3 best serves the community; difficult to exclude a second ice sheet Many entrepreneurs and health care professionals work out of existing small spaces, gyms or homes; multi-purpose rooms are less of a priority than play space for kids on weekends and after school Pretty expensive Currently, the only place indoors for tots is McDonalds; for low income families and mothers whose children are in care of Ministry, there is no accessible, healthy place to recreate in town The curling sheet is an under-used asset; with a concrete floor, it could be used 12 months of the year We need an inventory of facilities, and need to consider the age of the population; alternate energy needs to be considered Need some ideas for “heat” for arena spectators; sustainability has to be considered, as well as revenue, the importance of community connections, programs and services, including School District needs Where do you live? (Please circle one number) 1. 2. 3. 4. TOWN OF SMITHERS REGIONAL DISTRICT TELKWA OTHER TOWN OF SMITHERS 21 6 1 1 Page 4/4 APPENDIX D presentation panels Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN APPENDIX E life expectancy and maintenance review Town of Smithers SMITHERS RECREATION MULTIPLEX FACILITY PROJECT FEASIBILITY STUDY & BUSINESS PLAN Life Expectancy & Maintenance Budget Assessment 2010 Smithers Arena 1943 hanger relocated in 1954, erected 1957 1943 hanger relocated in 1954 75 50 25 60 50 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 75 50 25 60 50 1957 1957 1963 1957 1957 2032 2007 1988 2017 2007 22 0 0 7 0 $114,400 $0 $0 $34,125 $0 $148,525 MECHANICAL HVAC *Refrigeration - General *Refrigeration - Chiller Sprinklers Plumbing Sub Total not reviewed upgrades in 1999 - Code upgrades required upgrades in 2004 install in 1985 not reviewed 20 20 20 25 25 100% 75% 100% 100% 100% 20 15 20 25 25 1957 1999 2004 1985 1957 1977 2014 2024 2010 1982 0 4 14 0 0 $0 $117,000 $136,500 $0 $0 $253,500 ELECTRICAL Power Lighting Fire Alarm / Security / Emergency Lighting Sub Total not reviewed replaced piece meal not reviewed 25 100% 20 100% 15 100% 25 1956 1976 20 1956 1976 15 1956 1971 0 0 0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Remaining Value $470,275 Remaining Value Score 5% 4.0% 5.0% 13.0% 3.0% 25.0% 50.0% $390,000 $487,500 $1,267,500 $292,500 $2,437,500 $4,875,000 STRUCTURAL Concrete foundations Concrete slab-on grade *Refrigeration slab Exterior concrete block walls Superstructure (wood) Sub Total 8.0% 6.0% 2.0% 1.0% 3.0% 20.0% $780,000 $585,000 $195,000 $97,500 $292,500 $1,950,000 4.0% 5.0% 1.0% 10.0% $390,000 $487,500 $97,500 $975,000 100% added in 1963 $9,750,000 Replacement Value = 30,000 square feet x $325/sf Years Left 1960 1-5 1965 6-10 1970 11-15 1975 16-20 1980 21-25 1985 26-30 1990 31-35 1995 36-40 2000 41-45 1-5 Years Maintenance $0 $0 $68,250 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $68,250 1955 Year of review: 2010 0 0 7 0 0 0 0 0 Value remaining Expiration Year 1997 1987 2017 1982 1987 1977 1977 1982 annual maintenance Adjusted Life Expectancy 1957 1957 1957 1957 1957 1957 1957 1957 ARCHITECTURAL Doors Roof finish - steel Concrete block partitions Wood partitions Stairs, guards and rails *Skate Flooring Dasher boards Partitions and accessories Sub Total Wear Factor †† 40 30 60 25 30 20 20 25 $195,000 $487,500 $585,000 $195,000 $97,500 $97,500 $195,000 $97,500 $1,950,000 Life Expectancy † 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Comments Construction Year Replacement Value % of Total Replacement Cost 40 30 60 25 30 20 20 25 2.0% 5.0% 6.0% 2.0% 1.0% 1.0% 2.0% 1.0% 20.0% Date Life Beyond 25 Years Maintenance Maintenance Budget Estimates ($1,000) Construction: 1957 Building Component Life Expectancy 10-25 Years Maintenance Building: Construction Year: General Notes: 2005 46-50 2010 51-55 2015 56-60 60 100 10 60 2020 61-65 2025 66-70 2030 71-75 2035 76-80 100 10 50 100 150 50 50 20 200 400 100 50 Estimated maintenance budget subtotals (1,000) +15% Mech & Elec Maintenance (1,000) $670 $101 $290 $44 $550 $83 Estimated maintenance budget totals (1,000) $771 $334 $633 notes: *Life Expectancy Values for items marked with an asterisk based on manufacturer's recommendation and professional recommendation †Life Expectancy Values obtained from "Life Cycle Costing for Design Professionals"; Kirk, Dell'Isola ††Wear Factor Value is used to adjust life expectancy and is based on environment (moisture, chlorine), maintenance (based on Kirk, Dell'Isola maintenance descriptions), installation or component defects, and usage intensity 2040 81-85 2045 86-90 2050 2055 91-95 96-100 Life Expectancy & Maintenance Budget Assessment 2010 Building: Construction Year: General Notes: Smithers Arena 2010 ARCHITECTURAL Doors & Windows Roof finish - steel Concrete block partitions Stairs, guards and rails *Skate Flooring Dasher boards Partitions and accessories Sub Total 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2052 2042 2072 2042 2032 2032 2037 40 30 60 30 20 20 25 $144,000 $360,000 $504,000 $72,000 $72,000 $180,000 $72,000 $1,404,000 4.0% 5.0% 17.0% 5.0% 17.0% 48.0% $288,000 $360,000 $1,224,000 $360,000 $1,224,000 $3,456,000 STRUCTURAL Concrete foundations Concrete slab-on grade *Refrigeration slab Exterior concrete block walls Superstructure (metal) Sub Total observe / paint / repair observe / paint 75 50 25 60 75 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 75 50 25 60 75 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2087 2062 2037 2072 2087 75 50 25 60 75 $288,000 $360,000 $1,224,000 $360,000 $1,224,000 $3,456,000 8.0% 7.5% 3.0% 1.0% 3.0% 22.5% $576,000 $540,000 $216,000 $72,000 $216,000 $1,620,000 MECHANICAL HVAC *Refrigeration - General *Refrigeration - Chiller Sprinklers Plumbing Sub Total inspect and repair repair 20 20 20 25 25 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 20 20 20 25 25 2012 2012 2012 2012 2012 2032 2032 2032 2037 2037 20 20 20 25 25 $576,000 $540,000 $216,000 $72,000 $216,000 $1,620,000 4.0% 5.0% 1.0% 10.0% $288,000 $360,000 $72,000 $720,000 ELECTRICAL Power Lighting Fire Alarm / Security / Emergency Lighting Sub Total repair replace ballasts / lighting inspect and repair 25 100% 20 100% 15 100% 25 2012 2037 20 2012 2032 15 2012 2027 25 20 15 $288,000 $360,000 $72,000 $720,000 Remaining Value $7,200,000 Remaining Value Score 100% $7,200,000 Replacement Value = 30,000 square feet x $240/sf Value remaining 40 30 60 30 20 20 25 Years Left 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% 100% Adjusted Life Expectancy 40 30 60 30 20 20 25 Wear Factor †† Expiration Year $144,000 $360,000 $504,000 $72,000 $72,000 $180,000 $72,000 $1,404,000 Life Expectancy † clean / paint / repair hardware observe and repair observe / paint / repair paint / repair repair replace paint / repair Comments 2.0% 5.0% 7.0% 1.0% 1.0% 2.5% 1.0% 19.5% 100% Construction Year Replacement Value % of Total Replacement Cost Date Life 2010 2015 1-5 Beyond 25 Years Maintenance 10-25 Years Maintenance 1-5 Years Maintenance Construction: 2012 Building Component Life Expectancy 2020 6-10 2025 11-15 2030 16-20 2035 21-25 notes: *Life Expectancy Values for items marked with an asterisk based on manufacturer's recommendation and professional recommendation †Life Expectancy Values obtained from "Life Cycle Costing for Design Professionals"; Kirk, Dell'Isola ††Wear Factor Value is used to adjust life expectancy and is based on environment (moisture, chlorine), maintenance (based on Kirk, Dell'Isola maintenance descriptions), installation or component defects, and usage intensity 2040 26-30 2045 31-35 2050 36-40 2055 41-45 2060 46-50 2065 51-55 2070 56-60 2075 61-65 2080 66-70 2085 71-75 2090 76-80 2095 81-85