With the approval of North Bay City Council, an end-of-useful-life propane-fuelled Zamboni in the City of North Bay's fleet will be replaced with a modern electric version.
The City of North Bay's oldest ice resurfacer has exceeded its life cycle and is in need of substantial repairs to remain a reliable part of the fleet, according to the associated staff report.
The staff recommendation is for Council to approve the award of a contract to Zamboni Company Ltd. for just under $160,000 for the provision of an electric ice resurfacer.
In 2019, an electric ice resurfacer was tested and evaluated at Memorial Gardens. "The evaluation revealed potential savings with the elimination of fossil fuels and reduced maintenance on the electric machine. Lithium-ion batteries provide a zero-emissions alternative to other equipment, improving air quality to create a safe and healthy environment for staff and patrons," per the report.
The report also notes many large fleets in municipalities across Canada are switching to environmentally friendly machines based on the "proven benefits and a commitment to sustainability," of the evolving technology.
"This new electric machine has been put forward for purchase to reduce operational costs, maintenance and emissions," reads the report.
The replacement schedule for ice resurfacers, based on fleet life cycle management, identifies resurfacers over 10 years old to be replaced. This encourages the retirement of the propane Zamboni in question that "would require extensive repairs to remain in constant operation."
Zamboni was awarded a contract by co-operative buying group and City of North Bay affiliate Canoe Procurement Group of Canada for the provision of ice rink and arena equipment. The price for the Zamboni equipment provides the City with additional discounts and is considered fair and reasonable.
The cost of a new resurfacer with an internal combustion engine varies but one can be found for between $90,000 and $110,000.
According to this SooToday report from December 2021, that city's new electric resurfacer is expected to reduce emissions by approximately 90 per cent while annual maintenance is anticipated to fall from $5,000 annually to $3,000 per year for the electric version. Fuel costs are eliminated but replacement batteries can cost up to $12,000 per machine, every five to seven years.
North Bay City Council will vote on the contract during Tuesday's regular meeting, beginning immediately following the 6:30 p.m. committee meeting.
