Being out in the elements is certainly doing the historic Jitney Dance Hall no favours but neither is repeated vandalism to the cedar shake roof. Wakamow Valley is looking to do some repairs to the facility in Connor Park that is very popular for family functions, featuring barbeque pits and picnic tables under a large roof with open sides.

The Jitney Dance Hall was built 1916 by the Moose Jaw Electric Railway Company as part of the city’s first public amusement park. Although it received some upgrades in the 80's, the roof has seen much better days. Since the building is a heritage property, Wakamow needed approval from the Heritage Advisory Committee before any work can be done.

"They're replacing the cedar shakes that are on there with a cedar shake look-a-like," explained committee chair Scott Hellings who explained the roof has been vandalized by individuals who the shakes off and then burn them.

Hellings says its important to keep a facility like the Jitney Dance Hall in use because it allows a wonderful heritage property to continue to be enjoyed. The new material for the roof will look authentic but give the building better protection from the elements.