The Town of Westlock’s Eastglen outdoor skating rink will receive a $12,000 makeover this summer thanks to the local Rotary Interact Club.
Members Jesse Plamondon and Shelby Tkackyk, alongside advisor Lisa Boulerice attended the town’s May 11 council meeting as a delegation to provide an update on the project and to get a final OK from council.
“We’re here today to talk to you about our plan for the outdoor rink, The current rink has been around for many years now and is beginning to show its age,” Plamondon said. “Our plan is to remove all the existing boards, replace the wood and then cover it with an all-weather puck board.”
The group intends to have demolition of the existing rink completed by the end of June, and the new rink ready for the fall.
“Once the demolition is complete we will re-level the ground and straighten some metal posts prior to construction,” Plamondon said. “Prior to the demolition we will first contact our material supplier to ensure they have the proper materials that we need and enough materials so we won’t have any delays.”
The group, which has fundraised to pay for the project, estimates the overhaul of the rink will cost $12,300.
“Over two years through fundraising and community events we have been able to raise enough money to see this dream become a reality,” Plamondon said. “This project has received very good responses from those we have talked to in regards to it.
“Our group, with the aid of the town’s Rotary Club, looks forward to making our dream for the outdoor rink become a reality.”
Council had nothing but praise for the group’s undertaking of the project.
“I think this is very exciting to see that kind of initiative come forward, I think you are to be commended for that,” said Coun. Wyatt Glebe.
Mayor Ralph Leriger shared Glebe’s thoughts.
“They certainly are to be commended, it’s nice to see that initiative from our youth,” he said.
Council motioned that public works be directed to help clear materials after demolition is complete.
After rebuilding the rink this year, the club will look to upgrade the rink’s lighting in 2016.
