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VOL. 101 NO. 81
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New arena groundwork to begin in fall AUTUMN MacDONALD Observer Reporter Groundwork on the utilities portion of the arena replacement project is slated for fall of 2015. “That means as soon as the frost is gone in 2016 we’re ready to begin building the actual arena,” mayor Bob Simpson said. The latest arena update was discussed during Tuesday’s Joint Planning Committee meeting between city council and Cariboo Regional District (CRD) directors. Further to the utilities portion (moving of water, gas etc lines) a request for qualifications will be released this month. The project status report released to JPC members stated: “Based on current schedule, MKT recommends proceeding to a stipulated price contract. The contract should allow for a negotiated fixed price agreement, with cash allowances identified for demolition and possibly landscaping. The owner can then reserve the right to perform these elements of the work separately or assign the separately tendered work to the contractor. This methodology will allow the owner to maintain a single point
of responsibility and liability, while having the potential to segregate elements of the contract. We expect that the value of these allowances will be approximately $500,000 to $700,000.” With savings of approximately $4 million from the original quote of an approximate $22.5 million Simpson pointed to the integrity of the project. “It’s still a project to be proud of,” he said. “It’s affordable while still meeting the spirit and intent of the referendum.” MKT also identified savings potential, two of which were approved: • Simplify housing for ice plant (savings of $100,000); • Tender ice plant and rink slab – as package (savings of $150,000). Two other items were proposed but JPC has not confirmed they will move forward with these two suggestions: • Reduce bucket seats by 100 to bench seats (savings of $12,000); • Leave existing rink slab in place for parking (savings of $50,000). “JPC found a way to work together to stick handle a difficult project with cost estimates that exceeded the referendum,” Simpson said.
The peonies are blooming Nothing says summer like the elegant and beautiful opening of the peony buds. These stunning two-toned beauties are a prime example of the glorious display. Karen Powell photo
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14th Annual Quesnel & District Hospice Palliative Care Association
Hike for Hospice Sunday August 9, 2015
July 16th - 19th
Registration: 12:00 p.m. Hike: 1:00 p.m. LeBourdais Park
REGISTRATION - ADULTS $15 STUDENTS & SENIORS $5 CHILDREN UNDER 6 FREE