Lethbridge City Council received an update on the pavilions at the Lethbridge & District Exhibition on Tuesday, December 12, 2023. (Photo: LNN)

By Christian Oldale

Council receives update on Exhibition Pavilions repurposing review

Dec 12, 2023 | 4:58 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Lethbridge City Council received an update on the pavilions at the Lethbridge & District Exhibition on Tuesday, December 12, 2023.

In March of 2023, the Lethbridge & District Exhibition presented to the City’s Economic Standing Policy Committee, looking for funding towards the demolition of the Main, North, South and West pavilions, as well as Heritage Hall and Safety City buildings.

Council responded in May by bringing forward a motion to investigate the repurposing of the pavilions, and a consultant was hired.

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Although an analysis of the study is not fully complete, the initial information indicated that the building structures and foundations are sound.

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However, nearly $1.6 million would be required to replace essential components in the next five years to address maintenance deficits and age-related needs.

According to the City, over the next six to 25 years, the buildings would require further investment in upkeep and renewal estimated at $30 million, not including any costs to repurpose these old facilities. In addition, $6.4 million would be required for less critical needs, including parking lot resurfacing and lighting, as well as replacement of flooring and plumbing fixtures.

Council heard that with the new Agri-Food Hub & Trade Centre having the same amenities, and the cost of upkeep required, it may not be viable to retain the buildings.

Councillor Ryan Parker brought forward the resolution to do the repurposing review, and he said, “We will continue to do our due diligence with the investigation of these facilities, having a clear understanding and detailed analysis of these buildings will help council in their decision-making process.”

Exhibition CEO Mike Warkentin brought a presentation to Lethbridge City Council on November 28, 2023, asking council for assistance with funding for the Agri-Food Hub & Trade Centre, calling the situation “potentially critical”.

Part of the presentation involved asking the City to take immediate control of the old pavilions on the site. Council approved a one-year deferral of loan payments owed to the City at a cost of $1.16 million if the provincial government agrees to fund the second half of the $2.08 million request.

However, the province did not approve by the set deadline of December 11, 2023.

READ MORE: Lethbridge & District Exhibition seeking emergency funding

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