Hinton town council is taking financial measures to address the aging Dr. Duncan Murray Centre following a plebiscite in October that showed most voters in the western Alberta town prefer a new recreation center. The council has approved the 2026 budget, which involves raising property taxes by around $23 per month, based on an average home value of $400,000. Out of this increase, $19 per month is specifically allocated for recreation purposes.
Mayor Brian Laberge anticipates that by the end of 2026, there will be $1.75 million in the recreation center reserve fund. Laberge mentioned that the community’s desire for change was evident in the plebiscite results, so adjustments had to be made accordingly.
The non-binding plebiscite on October 20 followed a report from the previous council, indicating that 95% of the Dr. Duncan Murray Centre was in fair to very poor condition. The facility, which is 43 years old, houses two skating arenas, a swimming pool, court spaces, and a bouldering wall.
Plebiscite participants could choose between maintaining, expanding, or building a new facility. The build new option received the most support at 60%, with 52% against maintaining and 53% in favor of expansion. Despite a slower start to saving due to the approved tax increase, Laberge believes the plebiscite outcome has been respected.
Coun. Bill McDonald is optimistic that, with potential grants from various sources, a seven-to-ten-year timeline for the project is still viable. Discussions in the upcoming year will determine whether reserve funds will be allocated to expand the current facility or construct a new one.
Criticism arose regarding the lack of clarity in the plebiscite options, with some residents feeling confused. Concerns were raised about the tax increase by Melanie Widenmaier, who emphasized the importance of a measured approach due to economic challenges faced by the community.
The tax hike aims to position Hinton favorably among comparable communities and improve its overall infrastructure. Laberge emphasized the importance of enhancing town assets as a means to foster growth and attract new residents, businesses, and healthcare professionals.