Domtar settlement, new outdoor pool on council agenda

Prince Albert’s city council is expected to decide on Monday if they will pay a multi-million dollar settlement to Domtar Pulp and Paper Products Inc.

The city and Domtar have been in a legal battle over property taxes dating back to 2009. The company argued the assessment of its property was too high and requested a refund.

Domtar is asking for roughly $5.1 million from the city.

Back in December city administration decided to accept the offer, but requires council’s final approval.

The settlement means the city, as well as Sask. Rivers Public School Division and Prince Albert Catholic School Division, have to pay Domtar back. The city will pay back roughly $2.8 million, Sask. Rivers $1.5 million, and the Catholic school division roughly $670,000.

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School divisions collect a portion of property taxes from the city, which is why they are included in the settlement. Both school divisions have agreed to pay the amounts owed and will be covered by the province.

Council will also be looking at a request for a new outdoor swimming pool at the Kinsmen waterpark. Administration is recommending council award the $1.12 million project to Western Recreation and Development Inc.

One million dollars has already been budgeted, but $125,000 is planned to come from the civic facilities reserve.

The cost includes removing the existing pool, material and installation for the new pool, piping, a new pool deck, fencing and a $65,000 contingency.

The proposed timeline will start between April and July and continue until summer next year. Actual construction is expected to start in August this year. The ultimate goal is to have the pool up and running by June, 2018.

With the pool closed, the city has arranged a deal with Carlton High School to keep the Frank J. Dunn pool open from Monday to Thursday during July and August.

Jeff.labine@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @labinereporter