Residents to Vote on Recreation Centre Modernization Options

On October 20, 2025, Hinton residents can vote to show their support for different modernization options for the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre.

Three options are being considered by Council - and they want to hear from the community to help determine the path forward.

Each option has its own price tag and will be funded by borrowing, rec centre revenues, increased taxes, and potentially grants or sponsorship. Here are the options.

• Maintain: Conduct major repairs to extend the facility’s life. Work starts immediately and is ongoing. Costs $135M ($60M capital + $75M operating). Taxes will increase $15 per month on a $400,000 property.
• Expand: Conduct major repairs starting immediately then add a fieldhouse and other upgrades in 8 years. Costs $184M ($96M capital + $88M operating). Taxes will increase $35 per month on a $400,000 property.
• Build New: Build a brand new facility starting in approximately ten years. Costs $193M ($107M capital + $86M operating). Taxes will increase $50 per month on a $400,000 property.

The modernization options are based on a report provided by Associated Engineering (Alberta) Ltd. (AE) in October 2024. It determined that 95% of the Dr. Duncan Murray Recreation Centre was in fair to very poor condition.

The Bill Thomson Arena was built in 1965 (60 years ago). The rest of the recreation centre opened in 1982 (43 years ago). To date, the Town has conducted regular necessary maintenance but has chosen not to raise taxes to save for a new recreation centre.

On October 20, 2025 Hinton residents can vote on these modernization options during the General Municipal Election.

The results of the plebiscite vote are intended to provide an indication of support for different modernization options. However, plebiscites are non-binding, so the Mayor and Council elected on October 20, 2025 will decide the path forward.

What’s your vote? Learn more at Hinton.ca/engage.