November 25, 2025
Council approved implementing a Recreation Facilities Tax Levy in a 5-2 decision at the Nov. 24 regular Weyburn City Council meeting.
The levy will be a phased in with gradual increases; $100 in 2026, $150 in 2027 and $200 in 2028 and thereafter.
Staff will develop the Recreation Facilities Tax Levy Bylaw to be presented at a future Council meeting for first reading. New or amended bylaws require three readings before it can be passed.
November 24, 2025
Council decision on Weyburn’s aquatics future
On Nov. 10 at its regular meeting, Weyburn City Council approved a motion to build a new aquatics facility in a 4-3 decision. This motion also approved repurposing the existing Weyburn Leisure Centre facitility (with adjacent Sun Room) for community use as a different recreational space. If renovation is not feasible, the building will be demolished.
The new facility will be designed as a modern, inclusive, and accessible aquatic space with a projected budget of $30 million. Key features include:
- One Junior Olympic pool basin: A 25m, 6-lane tank to accommodate competition and leisure.
- Potential amenities (subject to final design and budget):
- Hot tub, sauna, steam room, cold plunge and waterslide.
- Expanded viewing areas with more seating.
- Larger change rooms, including gender-neutral and universal options.
- Tot pool and zero-depth entry for young children and individuals with mobility challenges.
- Accessibility and inclusion are central to the design.
Project timeline and next steps
This decision follows extensive research, facility assessments, and community engagement led by RC Strategies. The approved concept reflects what we heard from residents and user groups, and aligns with long-term city planning priorities. Find the details of the Aquatics Feasibility Study here.
The project is expected to take 24 to 48 months from current day to grand opening, depending on funding and grant opportunities.
With Council’s approval, the City of Weyburn now moves into the implementation phase:
- Engage design consultants for detailed planning.
- Select a project delivery model (e.g., design-bid-build, design-build, or public-private partnership).
- Develop detailed designs to refine cost estimates.
- Secure construction funding from municipal, provincial, federal, and private sources.
- Begin facility construction (estimated 24–36 months).
- Launch operational planning and fundraising campaigns.
- Open the facility and begin programming.
Community impact and engagement
Indoor aquatics have been a cornerstone of recreation in Weyburn for decades. This investment will:
- Promote physical and mental health.
- Support rehabilitation and water safety education.
- Foster community pride and inclusion.
- Create jobs and stimulate local economic growth.
The City is committed to keeping the community informed and involved as we move forward. Visit weyburn.ca/engage for updates and opportunities to participate.
Recreation Facilities Tax Levy
Also discussed at the Nov. 10 meeting was the implementation of a Recreation Facilities Tax Levy Bylaw. The funds collected by the levy will be applied to the costs of recreational facilities, including the costs of maintenance, renovations, expansion or establishment of new recreation facilities. Council directed staff to present the levy in a phased approach and to discuss at the Nov. 24 regular Council meeting.