After refurbishments at the Ponoka Culture and Recreation Complex forced the Ponoka Potter’s Guild to find a temporary location, the group is now seeking a more permanent solution.
President of the guild, Shelley MacGregor and secretary Sara Drieger met with town councillors Tuesday, Jan. 27 during their regular meeting. MacGregor said the guild has a long and positive relationship with the Town of Ponoka and she would like to see that continue.
When the arena was redesigned, the guild was forced to move, after being there for more than 30 years, to a temporary location at Don Laing Trailers. MacGregor said owner Inger Laing was gracious to let them be there for some time, but “for some of our members it’s an inaccessible space.”
When the Hudson’s Green Nature and Activity Centre opened up some two years ago, a space was set aside for the guild but MacGregor says it is too small for the equipment they use, which includes nine pottery wheels and a kiln.
Members of the guild did meet with Wes Amendt, director of community services, who gave them a tour of the Visitor’s Centre basement, which is not being used. MacGregor suggests the basement is an ideal location but needs some work in order for them to be able to use it.
A tenancy agreement between the guild and the town was in place and administration is looking into the history. Councillors did not make any decisions on the request.
The Ponoka Potters Guild has about 24 members with beginner and advanced classes offered to members of the public from young kids to adults.