The Access Communications Centre in North Battleford. (Image Credit: battlefordsNOW staff)

By battlefordsNOW staff

MUNICIPAL MATTERS

North Battleford formally commits $15M for proposed regional arena project

Mar 25, 2026 | 4:38 PM

North Battleford city council has approved up to $15 million in capital funding toward a proposed regional arena project.

The commitment also includes up to $350,000 annually in operating costs.

City manager Randy Patrick said the approval formalizes a position the City had previously discussed, but not officially adopted.

“Council has never made an actual, formal commitment to this project,” Patrick said.

The commitment depends on partner contributions, fundraising and senior government support. A joint ownership and governance model has yet to be finalized.

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Patrick said the City is expected to spend a similar amount on arena infrastructure regardless, estimating roughly $15 million would be needed to address aging issues at the existing facility – the Access Communications Centre (ACC).

“We will be spending that $15 million regardless, either here or on the old building,” he said.

Mayor Kelli Hawtin said the decision provides direction as the City works with regional partners. She said the project is being developed through a regional steering committee involving municipalities and First Nations.

“We’re trying to find our way through a joint ownership and operating model for a regional facility,” she said.

Hawtin said the City’s proposed operating contribution of up to $350,000 reflects current spending at the ACC.

“So we’re currently spending about that much each year operating the Access Communications [Centre]. What we’re suggesting is we would move that into that regionally owned and operated facility,” she said.

She added senior government funding, such as the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), will depend on demonstrated local support.

“They will not come to the table for a tripartite agreement unless there is that local portion that’s committed,” Hawtin said.

The local funding would come from a combination of reserves, debt or other sources, with final financing to be approved at a later date.

The project was previously estimated at about $80 million in 2025 dollars, though Hawtin said updated projections place the cost between $90 million and $94 million.

Read more about the proposed project:

North Battleford faces pivotal decision on $80M regional arena as ACC repairs loom in 2027

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cjnbnews@pattisonmedia.com