Long-Running Roof Issues Drive Up Repair Costs at Julie McArthur Rec Centre
Owen Sound council approved a $350,000 increase to the Julie McArthur Rec Centre roof project, bringing costs to nearly 50% above the original estimate due to hidden deterioration.
City council has approved a significant budget increase for the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre roof rehabilitation, adding $350,000 to cover unexpected deterioration discovered during construction.
At its September 8 meeting, council voted in favour of staff’s recommendation to raise the project budget from $920,950 to $1,270,950 — a 38% increase. Compared with the original consultant’s estimate of $850,000 prepared around 2022, the overall cost has now risen by nearly 50%.
The additional funds were needed after contractors uncovered extensive deterioration not identified in earlier assessments. Work began in July and involves replacing a 40,000 square-foot section of roof, upgrading insulation, installing new membranes, improving drains, and replacing skylights.
City staff estimate the project will extend the life of the facility, which opened in 2012, for at least another 20 years.
Since opening in 2012, the recreation centre has faced persistent roof problems. Leaks appeared shortly after construction, damaging insulation and requiring repeated repairs.
According to the staff report, the latest increase covers $40,000 in insulation replacement identified in a 2025 infrared scan, $110,000 in deteriorated roof materials above the pool deck that went undetected, and further costs tied to construction defects at transition walls and the roof access stairwell.
During council’s discussion, Coun. Jon Farmer asked whether the City might recover some costs if faulty materials were to blame.
Bradey Carbert, Manager of Corporate Services, explained that the City had twice attempted warranty claims. Shortly after construction, the City pursued a claim against the contractor with “some luck,” but accepted the repairs, ending that process. A second claim against the manufacturer in 2017 was unsuccessful.
The project is funded entirely through the City’s Canada Community Building Fund reserve, with staff confirming the additional $350,000 can be absorbed without affecting other capital projects.
The YMCA of Owen Sound Grey Bruce, which operates the facility, has been in ongoing discussions with the City to coordinate timing and public communications about any disruptions during construction.