MAPLETON – The Lake Conestogo Snowmobilers Club would like Mapleton Township to recognize its contributions to the local community by offering hall rentals free of charge.
The township has a list of 20 service organizations that can rent township halls and boardrooms for free, including the Kinsmen, Optimists, 100 Women Who Care, sports clubs, and the Masonic Lodge.
The snowmobilers’ club president Peter Beutler delegated to Mapleton council on April 9, along with vice president Darren Gowing and secretary Jake Wilson.
They said the entirely volunteer-run club has contributed to the community in a variety of ways in its 50-year history.
“The most notable being the creation, maintenance and administration of our trails, which are available during the winter months to all residents of Mapleton Township as well as other snowmobilers,” said Beutler.
“Our trail signs consist of trail sponsor logos from local businesses. Snowmobilers are a loyal group, and our signs channel their economic activity to our local sponsors. Provincially, snowmobiling is responsible for $6 billion in economic impacts on local businesses.”
Beutler explained the club is planning a 50th anniversary celebration this autumn, which officials hope will take place at the Maryborough Community Centre in Moorefield.
Everyone is welcome to attend the free celebration, and there will be a 50/50 draw to be donated back into the Mapleton community, he said.
Mayor Gregg Davidson asked whether the club would be happy with a one-time free rental of the hall, instead of being added permanently to the list of clubs exempted from fees.
Beutler said a one-time exemption would be fine.
The usual rate to rent both halls of the Maryborough Community Centre on a weekend is $700.
Councillor Michael Martin said he’s personally supportive of a one-time free hall rental.
“Fifty years is a big deal … If we can help out with the rental of the hall, it would be a nice touch,” said Martin.
Councillor Amanda Reid agreed and recommend council agree to the one-time free use, adding she does appreciate using the trails herself.
Councillors voted unanimously to approve the one-time free rental of the Maryborough Community Centre.
“Just make sure we know when the date is, so we can show up with our banners,” the mayor said to the club executives with a chuckle.
The celebration is expected to take place in late September or early October, with an effort to avoid dates when farmers will be too busy to attend the event, Beutler said.
Council is set to review the full list of exempted organizations in May.
