The agreement between Vaudreuil-Dorion and three Île-Perrot municipalities that allows them to use the Cité des Jeunes arena for five years will also give them the time to move forward with plans to build their own sports complex on the island, said Notre Dame de l'île-Perrot (NDIP) Mayor Danie Deschênes.

Vaudreuil-Dorion council announced on August 14 that the city finalized the purchase of the Cité des Jeunes arena from a private owner for $3.15 million. 

The purchase means NDIP, Pincourt and Terrasse-Vaudreuil will be able to continue providing ice time to its citizens and sports leagues.

"We're pleased with the agreement. We kind of have the best of both worlds because we're planning on having our own facility on the island. Until then, we can operate this one for the next three to five years," Deschênes told Néomedia.

'Win-win for everyone'

"It's a win-win for everyone. Vaudreuil-Dorion wants to keep the land and we want to use their arena. We're very happy and they have been amazing," said Deschênes.

NDIP will manage the Cité des Jeunes arena as part of an intercity agreement between NDIP, Pincourt and Terrasse-Vaudreuil. "NDIP will handle the operations and financial aspects like revenue and expenses," Deschênes said.

The mayor added the mutual emergency aid agreement between NDIP and Pincourt is a good example of cooperation among the municipalities on Île Perrot.

While NDIP has its own fire station, Pincourt is responsible for handling the day-to-day operation of the emergency services for both municipalities, said Deschênes.

Arena management

When it comes to managing the Cité des Jeunes arena, Deschênes said a committee has been set up comprised of the mayors and director-generals from the three municipalities and a director who will handle the operations at the arena.

Deschênes added that NDIP, Pincourt and Terrasse-Vaudreuil are committed to working together to realize their plans for an indoor sports facility and hopes the City of L'Île-Perrot will eventually join the group.