Construction activities will be confined to specific areas of the site, with the existing forest and trail system to be preserved as much as possible for the continued enjoyment of the community. For the safety of our residents and neighbours, the Township and SCDSB ask for your cooperation and patience throughout the construction process, and that you avoid construction areas which will be identified by fencing and signage. We are excited to begin work on the site and look forward to sharing our progress with the community as the project develops.Background Information
The Township's Strategic Facility Plan completed in 2010 provided a long-term strategy for the provision of recreation and community projects. One of the recommendations coming out of the plan was to look towards a new 7000 square foot community centre in the Horseshoe Valley Corridor. This recommendation has been built into the Township's long-term financial plan (budget).
Over the past number of year's, the Township has experienced significant growth and changes in local demographics which have created pressures for public services.
In 2017, through planning discussions with the SCDSB, an opportunity to pursue a potential partnership for a joint elementary school / community centre presented itself.
In September 2017, Council provided authorization for staff to continue these discussions with the SCDSB regarding the facility partnership opportunities.
The SCDSB capital plan included a new facility and potential partnership with the Township as a priority. In late January 2018, the Ministry of Education announced the SCDSB received approval on this project to include a 357 pupil place school to complement the planned Township community centre components.
At their June 28, 2018 meeting, Council considered a staff report OCS2018-18 regarding an update on the School/Community Partnership and execution of a Memorandum of Understanding for the Partnership Facility Agreement between the Township and the School Board. The report outlined, in general terms, the next steps/timelines in moving this facility partnership forward.
The preferred location for the facility has been identified (739 Horseshoe Valley Road) and the final due diligence to confirm the feasibility of the site is complete. The reports did not identify any significant constraints that would limit developing the site.
In the fall of 2018, Oro-Medonte Council confirmed the components of a the new community centre which will include:
- A full size gymnasium with auditorium/stage (shared space with SCDSB);
- a multi-purpose space/kitchen (for the Township);
- multi-purpose trails around the property; and
- the development of a site master plan.
Council further authorized staff to undertake a review to determine the feasibility of including a fitness centre/gym and indoor walking track as part of the project.
Township staff conducted the necessary research and reported findings back to Council in 2018/2019.
