Taber seeks support after explosion damages Community Centre

The town of Taber is asking the provincial and federal governments for some help to rebuild their beloved community centre. The centre’s two ice arenas and curling rink were damaged in an explosion on December 17 when a mechanical failure on a Zamboni’s fuel system leaked propane which was ignited by an electric heater. Thankfully, no one was injured.

According to Taber’s Chief Administrative Officer Darrin Thibault, if the incident had happened twenty minutes earlier or later, there could have been human casualties, as the ice arenas are home to 15 youth hockey teams, numerous adult teams, tournaments, and figure skating. 

According to a letter, which was unanimously approved by Town Council, and sent to MLA Grant Hunter and MP David Bexte, the incident 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.
“Rebuilding the Community Centre is more than restoring a structure—it is an investment in the health, vibrancy, and future of our region.”

 Although there’s an $11M price tag attached to cost of repairs, Thilbault says his letter to the province and feds doesn’t specifically mention a dollar amount, instead they are seeking any funding and resource support.  
He does not want to speculate on a timeline, but his goal is to have at least the large ice arena up and running in time for a two-week hockey skills camp in August hosted by NHL alumni.