Vermilion Ice Plant – out with the old and in with the new

The old ice plant which the Town of Vermilion has been looking to replace has been shut off for the season, but they along with the County of Vermilion River, and the Facility Enhancement Board are all looking at whether they can get a new one installed before next season.

The ice plant was officially shut off on Tuesday following Hockey Alberta’s cancellation of the remainder of the season.

“The Town was really great at keeping the ice in as long as possible,” said Shaun Cadrain, Vermilion Minor Hockey president.

Director of Community Services, Kevin Lucas, said they began removing logos and ice on Wednesday.

During Tuesday’s Town Council meeting, CAO George Rogers said they are trying to replace the 60-year-old ice plant in order to bring it up to current safety standards as well as provide function and operation for three ice surfaces (stadium, arena, and curling rink).

Council reviewed a one-time contribution commitment of $500,000 from the County of Vermilion River that would be coming from the county’s debenture funding and Parks Trust. The Town’s motion to accept the offer was carried, and Lucas said the contribution would bring the Facility Enhancement Board a large step closer to achieving their goal.

“I certainly want to thank the County of Vermilion River for acknowledging support for this – I think it’s critical,” said Mayor Caroline McAuley.

“I anticipate as fundraising moves forward, provided that everything works in our favour, we are anticipating a fall installation of this plant. This is great news for our community. Hopefully, we can cross the finish line on this prior to the next season starting.”

Cadrain said he’s hopeful things are a go for next season.

“That is all dependant on regulations. If we can get the new plant in and run two ice surfaces [stadium and arena] reliably, that’s perfect. Again, there are a lot of if’s to that question – if they get it in, if COVID regulations are lifted, etc.”

The Facility Enhancement Board will be hosting their virtual AGM Monday, February 8, at 7 pm on Zoom. The committee is always looking for new members, so if you are interested, you can email Dawn Riley for the Zoom link at bestmamaever71@gmail.com