Final meeting covers water system plans, recreation fees, and future facility upgrades
HEDDY SOROUR
Carleton Place council met on June 25 for its final meeting before the summer recess, tackling a full agenda that included an updated water financial plan, changes to recreation fees, a long-range concept for arena and pool upgrades, and decisions on property encroachment and asset management.
Water financial plan approved
Council approved an updated Water Financial Plan prepared by Watson and Associates Economists Ltd. The five-year plan is required as part of the municipality’s water licence renewal under the Safe Drinking Water Act.
The document will be submitted to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing and the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, and will also be made available to the public.
Concept plans shared for recreation facilities
Council received long-term concept plans from +VG Architects (The Ventin Group) for potential upgrades to two major recreation sites.
At the aquatic centre on Bridge Street, the proposal includes converting the aging facility into an indoor pickleball and tennis venue with upgraded change rooms. The estimated cost is $2.9 million in current dollars, rising to $3.5 million by 2027.
At the Neelin Street arena, an expansive new build is envisioned along McNeely Avenue. The proposal features a new pool, gymnasium with basketball courts, walking and running tracks, an auditorium, and additional seating at Rink 2. The total cost could exceed $80 million.
Council received the presentation as “blue sky” planning to guide future discussions.
“This gives us a good picture of what we could get into cost-wise,” said Mayor Toby Randell. “It gives us a lot to think about and a good indication of what we may or may not need, want or must have.”
Encroachment request denied
Council denied a request from the owners of 51 Hackberry Trail to retain a fence and landscaping that extend onto municipal property.
The fence crosses the property line by approximately 12 to 14 inches, and stonework extends up to five feet into the road allowance. As the original building permit showed all construction within the property, council directed the owners to remove the encroachments.
Asset management plan adopted
An updated Asset Management Plan has been approved by council. Prepared by PSD Citywide, the plan includes all town-owned infrastructure, outlines service goals, and sets out funding strategies. It meets 2024 provincial requirements and will be posted to the town’s website.
Recreation fees adjusted
Starting Sept. 1, 2025, arena and pool fees will increase to reflect rising operating costs.
Arena fees will rise by five per cent, while pool fees will see a two per cent increase.
“Increases affect seniors, and I’m very happy to see only a two per cent increase for the pool, even though we’re just breaking even,” said Coun. Linda Seccaspina.
Hall rental fees are also being revised. Rentals for the Canoe Club Hall and Town Hall Auditorium will decrease significantly—from $1,160 per day to $500, including cleanup (HST not included). Arena hall rentals will see a modest five per cent increase.
“I was happy to see the Canoe Club Hall rental go down. We could rent that out a lot more often with that reduction,” Seccaspina added.
A working group of councillors and staff will continue reviewing recreation fees, with further adjustments expected later in the year.
