Anthony Rota says if a new community centre arena project goes forward, the major funding associated with a Rota funding announcement back in 2022, is still in play.
Rota, who was speaking at a FEDNOR funding announcement press conference on Tuesday morning, says he discussed the topic earlier in the day with city officials.
"I met with the mayor this morning," said Rota, Nipissing-Timiskaming's MP.
'That was one of the topics that did come up was the arena and they are still working with the government of Canada to make it work so it is not even close to being dead. It is still very much alive and trying to make it work so I have high hopes for it.'
Rota is not surprised by the challenges that have come with making the project come to reality.
"With the economy over the past few years, everything is a concern," said Rota.
"It is very important that they continue to speak and continue to work on it to make it work."
The funding comes from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Communities, through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings Program.
In July 2022, Nipissing—Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota announced up to $25.77 million in funding for the previous version of the project stalled due to high costs and public opposition. The GICB funds were earmarked to help with the cost of the architecture and engineering design and were contingent upon the construction and commission of a net zero-carbon building. City officials have been formulating plans for a new building design with that federal money still in place.
See related: Report: Proposed arena target budget of $53 million is 'insufficient'
The local MP's optimism is good news as the city tries to stickhandle through the project with a tight budget.
According to a "market sounding" report prepared by hired consultants, there are "competing factors" that will need to be addressed before the City of North Bay can proceed with a revamped twin-pad community centre project — and the present budget of $52 million is "insufficient."
