The Grafton arena will get a major facelift after a lengthy debate over the future of the aging facility.
Memorial Arena, which is more than 75 years old, will get a new ice pad after Alnwick-Haldimand Township council approved a $78,000 proposal for Barry Brian Associates at its regular council meeting on Dec. 23.
The company will undertake a detailed design, develop a tender, including structural slab, associated refrigeration equipment, rink board, and glass. The work is expected to begin on Jan. 6, 2026, and be completed by the end of September 2026, according to a staff report.
Councillor Mary Catherine O’Neill asked how the costs of the renovations would be covered. Acting CAO David Dawson did not have a response, saying it was only what was previously brought before council.
Council previously instructed staff to proceed with the project, with the understanding that the township would pay up front and that a fundraising committee would raise the funds to repay the municipal coffers.
O’Neil suggested this will raise the municipal tax levy by 9.5 percent, up from the six percent target.
The proposal was passed with O’Neill saying she would vote against it.
The council debate:
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