The Skeena Ice Arena Association is asking the public to vote in an online competition to help it win funding to transform its condemned arena into an outdoor rink.
The Ken Trombley Memorial Arena closed suddenly in March because of safety issues with its roof, leaving Hazelton area skating clubs without a home.
Plans to build a new recreation centre were already underway when the old arena was condemned, but an interim solution was needed to keep skaters on the ice until the new facility is built.
The arena association decided to tear down the arena roof to create an outdoor rink, giving clubs a green light to start planning their upcoming seasons.
But the association needs more money to run the arena this winter, having spent part of its operational budget on the demolition.
In a bid to secure more funds before the skating season kicks off, the board has submitted a project to the Aviva Community Fund to help with costs.
The Fund invites submissions from charity and community organizations for a share in $1 million in funding.
To be shortlisted for a prize, the projects need to collect a certain amount of votes from friends, family and supporters.
Winners will then be selected by a judging panel.
The Skeena association is asking for $65,000 to purchase a used Zamboni, $20,000 towards the roof and $15,000 to cover operating costs for the three months from January to March.
Voting starts on Oct. 6 and runs until Oct. 23.
To vote search for Hard Up in the Hazeltons at avivacommunityfund.org or on Facebook. Votes are limited to one per day.