Luseland council hears about arena renovation plans
By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice
LUSELAND – The Town of Luseland council heard a promising update about arena renovations during their regular meeting Oct. 15.
Mayor Kathy Wurz, in a phone call with Your West Central Voice Oct. 18, stated that the arena committee submitted a report on the renovation project, noting the committee has reserves gathered through fundraising. However, she stated that the committee will now enter major fundraising territory as it was announced Phase 3 is scheduled to go ahead with replacement of the old curling rink, concession and washrooms with a new structure, plus a renovation of the main entrance.
Wurz noted that plans call for demolition to begin when the 2026-27 arena season ends. Phase 3 is budgeted at $3 million.
Town council wants to gather feedback on a Town of Kerrobert offer to let Luseland use a handibus one day every two weeks. The mayor noted Luseland has issued a request for public feedback on the idea, which would allow Luseland residents to use the bus for things like shopping trips and medical appointments. Wurz observed the feedback will be discussed at a November council meeting.
During committee reports Coun. Chad Levitt reported that Pioneers Haven has some flooring issues. It was reported that some flooring is coming back up. It’s suspected that a boiler or water issue is to blame. It was decided that no insurance claim will be made to keep premiums low and that repairs will be handled by the organization.
A motel committee report was submitted that included updates on recent repair work. Mayor Wurz stated that the motel’s boiler was having issues so a decision was made to replace it with two smaller ones; this ensures water and heat service suffer no disruptions. The boilers will be paid for out of reserves.
During staff reports it was noted there are changes to policy and procedure at the Saskatchewan Police Commission, specifically affecting certain cameras. As Luseland has its own police department, the municipality will conduct random reviews of the police officer’s body-worn camera footage to ensure all procedures are followed. The mayor noted this isn’t a reflection on Police Chief Ty Kohlman but rather a legal obligation.
Councillors discussed a new town policy on requests for individual recognition or “thank yous.” The proposed volunteer recognition and social media policy notes the town declines requests to thank individuals or show recognition because it’s easy to accidentally overlook someone which could cause a conflict. Wurz stated the town decided not to be involved in “thank yous.”
A request was sent to council to consider upgrades at ball diamond No. 3; the minor ball association told council it was considering some upgrades to the diamond and wanted to know the town’s opinion. Wurz stated the possible upgrades shouldn’t cause any problems and there is lots of parking at the site so town council had no concerns.