A Strathcona County family that has been farming in the area for nearly 150 years is disappointed that the council voted to move forward with building a new arena for the Sherwood Park Crusaders, despite many arguments made against the location. The Jackson family, who have been operating the Jackson Homesteaders farm since 1881, spoke out against the project at a public hearing where about 50 people voiced their opposition. The 18-acre parcel of land where the arena is planned to be built used to be owned by the Jackson family, who felt that the property was bought under a forced sale by the county. The family was not contacted about the new plans and was shocked to learn of the arena via the county’s announcement a few months ago.
The Jacksons argue that the issue is not about the need for another rink in the community, but rather the location of the proposed arena. Despite the overwhelming support from the community at the public hearing, the council approved the zoning for the arena, citing the $86-million private investment by the hockey team as a significant boost for the community without any impact on taxpayers. The Deputy Mayor emphasized the importance of the private investment and the economic benefits it would bring to the area. The Jackson family expressed disappointment with the council’s decision and their inability to revisit it, but noted that the project still faces permit hurdles and may not be a done deal.
The proposed arena plans include a four-sheet ice-rink arena that can seat at least 2,500 people in the primary arena. The county is gifting the 17-acre site for the building, and the Crusaders will be responsible for the construction costs. In addition, the county will provide financial support for the operations and maintenance of the facility, as well as an equity investment. The arrangement also includes the Crusaders offering at least 2,430 hours of ice time each year to the county for community-based activities. The Jackson family has raised concerns about the traffic generated by the arena affecting their farming operations, as well as the impact on their horseback riding activities.
Despite the challenges the proposed arena presents to their farming operations, the Jackson family is considering accepting the outcome and moving on. While legal avenues to challenge the decision were explored, they are unsure if they will pursue them at this time due to the potential exhaustion and lack of fruitful results. The hockey club is hopeful that the facility will open in September 2026, but the Jackson family remains concerned about the impact the arena will have on their farm and livelihood. They plan to continue monitoring the situation and exploring their options as they move forward.
