$40 Million Sadlon Arena Expansion Plans Revealed at City Council Meeting Amid Worsening Economy

Sadlon Arena Expansion

At the March 29th City Council meeting, Tourism Barrie presented an expansion plan for Sadlon Arena. The arena, only 28 years old and relatively modern according to the assessment. It is a primary home to Barrie Colts of the Ontario Hockey League and has a current capacity of 4200 seats.

There were six options proposed, ranging in cost from $12 million to $40 million. Depending on the option, up to 1200 new seats, a new lobby, food court, and team facilities could be added. 

Barrie Tourism's preferred option would add 1200 more seats, 1300 square meters of new lobby and food court space, and other amenities. It would cost the city $40 million but was claimed to benefit the local economy.

Mayor Alex Nuttall had previously spoken negatively of the proposed multi-million dollar investment in a performing arts centre. However, he seemed to be open to the new plan, stating that "all options are on the table," including different management models.

However, two of the often independent voices on the council, Bry Hamilton and Clare Riepma, raised questions about the cost.  "Saddle Up: Sadlon Arena Expansion Plans Unveiled at City Council Meeting".

It is yet to be determined whether the Mayor's call for financial restraint will have any impact on the project. 

Love Barrie and Heritage Awards

At the March 29th City Council meeting, Council passed a motion to seek external legal counsel regarding potential issues associated with the Love Barrie sign.

While in office, Former Ward 10 Councillor Mike McCann spearheaded a project to privately raise at least $375,000 for the 10ft x 40ft sign. However, there have been demands for greater transparency surrounding the funding. McCann subsequently ran for Mayor and lost to current Mayor Alex Nuttall. 

Councillor Bry Hamilton, who is currently representing McCann's former ward, introduced the motion. Hamilton, who was not on the council when the sign project was underway, said it was a forward-looking motion to ensure future transparency and liability. 

Councillor Clare Riepma, who seconded the motion, added that it should not be difficult for former councillor McCann to provide council with financials related to the sign.

Deputy Mayor Robert Thomson criticized the former council, of which he was a part, calling the decision to approve the sign one of the worst of the previous term. 

It is estimated that hiring an external lawyer for the city will cost around $10,000.

During the meeting, the council also awarded 2022 Heritage Barrie Awards. 

Timestamps 

0:00:00 Intro

00:01:30 Sadlon Arena

00:57:00 Love Barrie Financials

01:28:00 Heritage Barrie Awards