On Monday, September 8, 2025, Township of North Glengarry council received a report highlighting that the Glengarry Sports Palace’s (GSP) compressor room chiller had failed and required replacement. The chiller, which failed on August 19, is a key part of the ice-making system, forcing the rink to close temporarily.
Director of Community Services Stephanie MacRae explained that around 96 hours of ice time were lost due to the failed chiller, resulting in approximately $15,346 in lost revenue for the township. The failure was determined to be caused by a chemical mix-up in the refrigeration system involving ammonia and brine.
MacRae said that the chiller had been installed in 2010 and has an average operational lifespan of 17 to 20 years. CIMCO technicians arrived on site and determined that the equipment is no longer operational. The quoted replacement cost is $228,877 plus applicable taxes.
This would include the installation of the new chiller and the removal and disposal of the ammonia and brine.
The replacement chiller was ordered under the Township of North Glengarry’s procurement policy outlining emergency purchases. Staff estimates that the rink will be ready 5-6 weeks after installation, delaying its use for the 2025/2026 season.
MacRae informed council that the Community Services team worked to transition GSP ice users to the Maxville Sports Complex (MSC). Because of the high number of users, priority went to minor hockey and sanctioned leagues, while many adult recreational leagues lost ice time temporarily.
Councillor Brian Caddell asked staff if there were any health and safety risks at the GSP due to the chiller fault. Staff said that, although the system is contained at the rear of the building with proper ventilation, the GSP dry pad should not be used until the chiller is replaced.
Council unanimously accepted the report without further discussion.
