We are moving one step further towards a decision on whether we have an acceptable “deal” for the Schomberg Agricultural Arena and Community Centre. In the report tabled for the 11/4 Council it is clear that we have a proposal from Caregiver Omnimedia which is very exciting: a facility offering transitional services for seniors, a secure living environment for individuals with memory loss, a medical facility open to all and a community space for activities and events.  As the report very clearly states that there is much yet to be negotiated and that indeed those negotiations may not be successful. You can read the report here to learn more about the proposal and to see what is on the negotiation list.

I will admit that I became very excited when I read the report; the concept being proposed is very innovative and break through–nothing like it exists in Canada. The infrastructure goals & strategies are also very bold with the intent to build to LEED. But then I asked myself: is this really meeting the goals we established after our extensive community consultations?

I have gone back and reviewed the summary of what the latter revealed and have come to the conclusion that the proposal seems to be very much on track. Key points points being:

1.  financial feasibility, namely the $1.5 million gap in the Trisan Centre project will be filled

2.  community use i.e. there will be community space with, at minimum, a plan to support the on-going operation of the Schomberg Agricultural Fair. I will be seeking more information at Council as to the latter as information provided in the report is sketchy.

It is true that the specific concept being proposed was not identified during the community consultations but I do believe it is very consistent with several of the general ideas & dreams expressed.

• We are not selling the property and setting the stage for development applications for housing.
• We are not converting the site into an industrial or works yard.
• The need for effective multi-purpose community space is being addressed.
• Pending learning more at Monday’s Council meeting I think the Fair is being supported.

I can appreciate that some may not be satisfied as they very much wanted to see the current building retained and re-purposed. If this plan is implemented I hope they will have some satisfaction that in its place is a facility addressing the needs of persons in their community who require assistance because of poor health and that there is a new flexible community space.

I am very proud to be a member of this Council which is being strategic as to how to leverage this site for the long term benefit of the Township and Schomberg as opposed to selling it for medium density residential. If you have a point of view, comments please attend Council on Monday to make a deputation and/or email our Clerk ksmyth@king.ca.