Council Reviews Options on Future of Lloydminster Cultural & Science Centre

Lloydminster, AB/SK – City Council will await public feedback before deciding how the City will support art, heritage and culture services over the next decade.

Over the past several years, the City has been seeking solutions for the aging Lloydminster and Cultural and Science Centre (LCSC) building, which is subject to recurring infrastructure failures that hinder the City’s ability to protect and preserve the historic and irreplaceable artifacts housed within. Following multiple inspections and third-party assessments, the building has been deemed at the end of its serviceable life.

This past Monday, Administration presented Council two options to continue providing such services on a reduced basis over the next 10 years while plans and funding for a replacement building are secured.

“The City is committed to developing a long-term strategy for housing and displaying items of cultural, historical and artistic significance, in conjunction with quality cultural programming,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “We now look to our community to provide their input through the ‘Your Voice’ community engagement campaign. The feedback collected on this important community matter will support Council in making a decision that best reflects the community’s priorities.”

The options presented during the May 25 Council meeting would see the LCSC building decommissioned and two proposed alternative locations for use over the next 10 years. While one variant will allow programming to continue, both options allow for a limited number of artifacts to be displayed. Both options account for temporary alternative accommodations for the Lloydminster and District Archives.

“The decommissioning of the current building provides the City an opportunity to further collaborate with community members and stakeholders in creating a shared vision for the future of art, heritage and culture in our region,” said Mayor Aalbers.

Share Your Voice!

Due to COVID-19, community engagement is occurring through an online format. Residents and facility user groups may provide feedback through a survey on the project website, www.yourvoicelloyd.ca/LCSC.

Background

In early 2020, Administration began working on a plan for the relocation of the LCSC; however, the COVID-19 pandemic – compounded by recent volatile economic conditions – has created unforeseen socio-economic challenges for the City, some of which may have long-lasting effects. With replacement, renovation or a full-scale move deemed cost-prohibitive, Administration was compelled to re-evaluate immediate plans for the LCSC. With a financial position as a primary consideration, Administration is seeking Council’s approval to decommission the facility.