Neighbouring municipalities stepping up to assist Taber arena user groups

Posted on January 8, 2026 by Sunny South News

By Heather Cameron
Southern Alberta Newspapers
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

On Dec. 17, there was an explosion in the arena at the Taber Community Center that originated in the Zamboni room of the facility and caused significant damage within the arena and curling rink areas.

“The cause of the explosion is under investigation by the appropriate authorities,” said Meghan Brennan, Communications Manager for the Town of Taber.

Brennan confirmed that emergency crews responded immediately, the area was secured, and there were no injuries reported, though about a dozen people were on the premises at the time of the incident. 

Brennan said that the Town of Taber is deeply relieved that no one was hurt, and that remains at the forefront of everyone’s minds. The Town, Brennan stated, is focused on supporting their staff, who have been directly impacted, and who have been working through an incredibly challenging situation with professionalism and care, and their priorities in the situation are safety, transparency, and clear, timely communication as the investigations continue and next steps are determined.

“In the days following the incident, the community response has been overwhelming, with residents, user groups, and partners offering support, patience, and understanding as the situation unfolds,” said Brennan. “The outpouring of support from the community and neighbouring municipalities has been deeply appreciated and has reinforced the strength of our region.”

Brennan said that the facility will remain closed while structural, mechanical, and environmental assessments are completed, and there is currently no confirmed timeline for reopening for any section of the Community Centre, including arenas, curling club, Auditorium, and various leased spaces.

“The Town will continue to share updates as key milestones are reached, including the completion of inspections, investigations, and any required remediation work,” said Brennan. 

“While the focus right now is on safety, assessments, and recovery, it has been encouraging to see how ready and willing people are to support bringing the Community Centre back stronger than ever. “That support has been heartwarming and reflects a strong sense of regional neighbourliness that will not be forgotten.”

Amidst the search for answers, Brennan stated, several neighbouring communities have stepped forward with offers of ice time and space to help accommodate displaced user groups. 

User groups in Taber are being connected directly with available options offered by other communities, Brennan said, and any scheduling or operational decisions at facilities outside Taber are managed by those municipalities and their facility operators.

The community of Vauxhall is among those who have stepped forward to help.

Vauxhall Mayor Kimberly Cawley stated that the manager of the arena in Vauxhall is working closely with Vauxhall users to arrange scheduling and accommodate Taber users as best as they can, with the arena management team creating extra locker room space where they can, and the concession operators are happy to see increased usage in the facility and are working to support the additional traffic through the facility.

“We are so thankful that no one was injured in this incident. It’s a reminder for us all that safety is always first priority,” said Mayor Cawley. “Vauxhall is here to support all ice users. We have a great facility, and with the recent and continued investments into ours, it shows the value we can bring to other local communities. We are here to support our friends and neighbors and continue to build strong relationships.”

Brennan said that this has been a ‘difficult and emotional event’ for the community, and the Town of Taber is grateful for the professionalism of emergency responders, staff, and partner agencies, as well as the patience, understanding, and support shown by the public, user groups, and leaseholders while they work to get answers and next steps.

Brennan also said that updates regarding the incident will continue to be shared through official Town of Taber channels as verified information becomes available.

“The Community Centre is a hub in Taber, and we know this incident has disrupted the lives of so many in our community,” said Brennan. “The arena is more than a building; it is a central gathering place for sports, events, and community life.”