Town asking MP and MLA for support in rebuilding community centre

By Cal Braid
Taber Times
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

On Jan. 12, Taber town council approved two nearly identical letters to MLA Grant Hunter and MP David Bexte asking for support in rebuilding the Community Centre. CAO Derrin Thibault told council,”I actually did haveå MLA Hunter reach out to me a couple of weeks ago. The premier had asked him to reach out and see if there was anythingå they could do for us. They would like some official correspondence if there is a request.” Thibault explained that the Town put together a letter for each representative to explain “what’s going on in our world” and asking for advocacy and support.

“We do have that application out for the green and inclusive community building program which is almost an $8 million ask, and council had committed to putting $2 million into that if in fact we got the $8 million from the federal government. So we’re looking to get any support we can get politically and this is the best way to go about that,” Thibault said.

Council saw no need to discuss or debate the matter and simply went straight to a motion, which they approved unanimously. The letters varied slightly but sent the same message: The Taber Community Centre has served as the heart of Taber’s recreational and cultural life and has been a cornerstone for the community. The centre hosted 151 auditorium rentals last year, and the ice arenas are home to 15 hockey teams under 18 years, along with numerous adult teams, tournaments, popular public skates and figure skaters all vying for ice time.

“Unfortunately, a recent explosion caused extensive damage, forcing its closure. This has had a profound impact on our community, disrupting sports programs, youth engagement, and regional events that contribute to both well-being and economic vitality,” said the letter.

“Rebuilding the Community Centre is more than restoring a structure—it is an investment in the health, vibrancy, and future of our region.” the letter said.

“We respectfully request your assistance in advocating for funding and resources to support this effort. Your support will ensure Taber continues to offer opportunities for recreation, tourism, and community connection for generations to come.” It stressed the importance of the Taber facility as a regional hub for hockey, noting that each August, NHL alumni host the Verset Hockey Skills Camp in Taber. The camp recently expanded to two full weeks due to growing demand and attracted over 400 participants from across Western Canada. It asked for support in identifying and accessing any provincial programs that could assist with this project in the event that green and inclusive community building funds are denied.

“Thank you for your consideration and your continued commitment to our region,” it concluded. Optimism over building a new dry sport facility in town abounded in 2025, but the destruction at the arena has shifted the Town’s focus back towards prioritizing the community centre. Whether the Town is looking at partial or full rebuilds, or a major renovation is not yet known. Expect further reporting on the plan.