Maple Ridge voters to decide borrowing for three recreation projects Oct. 17

Maple Ridge voters will face three separate assent vote questions during the Oct. 17, 2026 Local General Election, each concerning proposed long-term borrowing for a recreation project. The projects are a new Hammond Aquatics and Recreation Centre, the first phase of Hammond Multi-Use Community Park, and an expansion of the Albion twin-rink arena.

The proposed year-round centre at Hammond Community Park would include aquatic, fitness, recreation, arts and community spaces. The 40-acre park proposed at the current Maple Ridge Golf Course site would include sports fields, trails, green space and amenities. The Albion proposal would add ice and dry-floor space, spectator seating, fitness space and event capacity.

Carolyn Mushata, Director of Legislative Services and Chief Election Officer, said assent voting gives residents a direct say on whether the city can borrow for major projects. The vote grants borrowing authority, not construction contracts. Provincial legislation requires voter assent for long-term borrowing, and the listed amounts are based on Class C cost estimates including contingencies.

The questions seek authority to borrow up to $227 million for up to 25 years under Hammond Aquatics and Recreation Centre Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 8123-2026, for a centre at 11509 207 Street, 20601 Westfield Avenue and an unaddressed property, PID: 013-715-984. They also seek up to $23 million over 25 years under Bylaw No. 8124-2026 for the park at 20818 Golf Lane, and up to $143 million over 25 years under Albion Twin-Rink Arenas Expansion Loan Authorization Bylaw No. 8122-2026 for the arena expansion at 23588 Jim Robson Way.

Each question stands alone. More than 50 per cent of valid votes cast must be Yes for it to pass; a No majority means borrowing for that project is not approved. The city says it would continue pursuing grants, sponsorships, partnerships and other funding to reduce the final borrowing amount. A successful question would still require final adoption of its loan authorization bylaw by the new Council before detailed design, further public engagement, procurement planning and construction preparation.

Eligible voters may cast advance ballots Oct. 7, 10, 14 and 15, vote on Oct. 17 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or apply for a mail ballot beginning Oct. 7. Details are at MapleRidge.ca/GoVote or Election@MapleRidge.ca.