The City of Swift Current plans to apply to a multi-billion dollar grant program.

Securing funding through the Federal Government's 'Green and Inclusive Community Buildings' (GICB) grant program would allow them to begin developing a new Aquatic Centre. 

Presenting this matter to Swift Current city council, was the Cities Event and Program Manager, Nicole Spenst. 

"In 2020, the Federal Government announced a five-year $1.5 billion (GICB) program that is now entering stage two of a potential three-stage rollout," shared Spenst. 

The City will be applying for the grant, which aims to build more community buildings as well as upgrade and maintain existing buildings that are in high-population areas. 

"These recreational facility structures and spaces are at the heart of community vitality," said Spenst. "They are places where Canadians gather, access essential services, to learn and play. Play is a meaningful role in fostering inclusion in society and combating systemic inequalities."

If the City gains support through its application, phase two of the GICB would potentially cover up to 73.33 per cent of the cost associated with constructing the building. That would leave the City of Swift Current the remaining 26.7 per cent of the fees, along with any shortages, cost overruns, or any 'new scope of work'.

"Council would agree to fund the municipal share of the project by using debt for the principal and interest," proposed Spenst. "Municipal taxes would then fund the ongoing operational and maintenance costs of the facility."

The City of Swift Current began looking at assembling a plan for a potential multifunctional leisure facility, capable of hosting cultural, sports, recreational, and fitness activities, back in 2009.

Swift Current city council voted to develop a plan, pending approval for the grant from the Federal Government.