Mayors and councillors in the Yorkton-Melville constituency expressed their appreciation recently as the federal and provincial governments sent $944,500 into our area through the Canada-Saskatchewan Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund.

The money will be used to build and upgrade community cultural and recreational facilities in the riding. The federal and provincial governments provided an additional $14.9 million in Saskatchewan last year, bringing the total for infrastructure funding to more than $90 million.

The Yorkton Kinsmen Arena is receiving $135,780 to rebuild the refrigeration system. The upgrade will increase energy efficiency, reduce emissions and lower operating costs.

The outdoor pool in Canora is getting $87,838 to replace the old heating system with solar accessories and a new boiler.

The Esterhazy Arena Complex will get $192,570 to replace the ice re-surfacer room and put in new concrete in the skating and curling rinks.

Hudson Bay will also install a solar heating system for its pool with an infrastructure grant of $47,644. Lower operating costs will improve the prospects for long-term viability of the town’s recreation facility.

The Kelvington Swimming Pool received $81,968 for solar heating, fencing, lighting, pumps, filters, a chlorinator and portable aquatic lift. Swimmers with physical disabilities will benefit from improved pool access.

The Langenburg Community Centre will receive a new roof with its $71,664 infrastructure allocation. The roof and upgraded insulation will extend the life of the facility and make recreation more comfortable for athletes and spectators alike.

The Melville Curling Rink is the recipient of $77,052 for structural repairs and energy efficient furnaces and heating units.

Construction of the new Sturgis and District Cultural Centre will benefit from the Municipal Rural Infrastructure Fund allocation of $250,000. Located adjacent to existing sports grounds, the energy efficient cultural centre will replace the community hall in Sturgis.

In each case, the funding constitutes a portion of the net costs of these projects. The grants are designed to ensure the projects are completed in partnership with the municipalities. I am delighted that the federal government was able to contribute to these projects, along with 48 others located in other parts of the province.

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