Statement from CAO Sonya Skinner: Outdoor Rink Roof Project Update
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Collingwood, ON [25 August 2026] The Outdoor Rink Roof Project remains an important investment in our community, and Council’s recent direction provides a path forward to complete the project and deliver the benefits residents have been anticipating. The respective roles of Council and staff are clear. Council provides governance, strategic direction, and funding decisions, while staff are responsible for project implementation and delivery. As work progressed on this project, a number of design, permitting, site, and operational considerations were identified that required additional review and refinement. These matters have impacted project costs and timelines and, in some cases, highlighted the need for improvements to the Town’s capital project planning and delivery approaches.
These challenges have identified opportunities that may be considered in the future to enhance the facility’s long-term functionality, address existing site conditions, and support broader recreational use of the amenity. Equally important, they have reinforced the value of strong project governance, thorough due diligence, and continuous improvement in how complex municipal infrastructure projects are delivered.
I appreciate Council’s thoughtful consideration of this matter and the confidence they have placed in staff to move the project forward. My focus remains on ensuring strong oversight, transparent communication, responsible stewardship of public funds, and successful delivery of this important community asset.
The additional funding approved by Council will support the next phase of project delivery. Based on current information, the Town’s objective remains to have the facility available for the upcoming winter skating season; however, as with any construction project, completion remains subject to final site conditions and construction progress. Additional updates will be shared on Town communication channels as the work nears completion.
I would like to thank residents for their patience as this work continues. Town staff remains committed to delivering a facility that will serve the community for many years to come, and we look forward to welcoming residents to our enhanced rink space upon its completion.
Sonya Skinner
Chief Administrative Officer, Town of Collingwood
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