Smithers council approves assessment of nine Fall Fair Grounds buildings

Smithers council agreed to perform structural engineering assessments for some of the buildings at the Fall Fair Grounds at Tuesday’s meeting.

According to the staff report, it was brought up as some buildings have started showing visible deterioration or structural concerns.

The findings would be used to create a priority list for the Fall Fair Management committee of buildings requiring repair with nine currently identified to be assessed.

The budget for having assessments done is $100,000 from the Resource Benefit Agreement funding.

“This expenditure is for the town’s protect and anything further that results in this should probably go through the Fall Fair Management committee unless staff advises otherwise,” said Councillor Frank Wray.

The report said all of the buildings are on lands leased or licensed to the Bulkley Valley Agriculture and Industrial Association and the Northern Saddle Club with no other structures showing immediate concern.

“When I think of how many people go through the Fall Fair every year, I think it’s crucial that every building on those fair grounds be as safe as possible,” said Councillor John Buikema.

“What really matters is that we do whatever we have to do in a fashion that gives some security to the fair,” said Mayor Gladys Atril.

While council moved to go ahead with the assessments, Councillor Genevieve Paterson had an additional motion.

“That council refer long-term planning of the Fall Fair Grounds to the Standing Committee on Strategic Priorities for consideration of addition to the Town of Smithers Project Plan list.”

This was also passed by council.