Students ask Iqaluit for youth turf space that stays open all year

Two Iqaluit students have asked the City for year-round turf space where young people can be active and spend time with friends without paying to participate. Their letter was read at the October 6 Governance and Priorities Committee of the Whole meeting.

Siasi Debicki and Viivi Morrison-Mike described frequent summer use of the Arctic Winter Games Arena turf, including soccer, volleyball and other activities. They stressed the importance of free access and Friday and Saturday evenings.

Why the seasonal turf was removed

The agenda includes the City’s September 18 reply. Deputy CAO Bill Williams said the turf was removed as part of the arena’s regular transition to winter operations and the ice season, at approximately the same time each year. He said the removal was not caused by a trade show or business conference.

Deputy Mayor Kimberly Smith thanked the students during the meeting and supported working toward year-round space. The chair also referred to recreation facilities as part of future capital planning.

What remains to be decided

The correspondence and discussion do not establish funding, a site or a construction timetable for a year-round turf facility. The next records to watch are a specific facility proposal, its operating and capital costs, and a budget decision.

The students’ letter also refers to a possible school turf project. That is their account of the proposal; the package does not establish the Department of Education’s decision or the status of any offer.