Residents of the Alma area participated in a community-wide survey in 2002 to determine the most effective use of the 25-acre plot of land donated by Wallace Cumming.
The area was designated Wallace Cumming Park and has become the site of the Alma Community Centre and a children’s playground, labyrinth and walking trail.
As no development has taken place at the site for a number of years, the Alma Community Recreation Association met in July 2017 to discuss the future of the area.
Association members Linda Scott, Chris Grose, Deb Noble, Jeremy Morton and Jim de Bock examined and discussed possible updates to the site.
In order to assess the needs of the community, the association has compiled a brief survey that is available to residents in the Alma area. The survey includes 15 questions on family size, use of existing facilities, access, availability of community activities, additional programs and volunteerism.
“The survey will take less than 10 minutes to complete,” de Bock said. “Paper copies have been given out and there is an online version. The deadline for completion of the survey has been extended to Feb. 19.”
Once survey results have been compiled, the association will update the Wallace Cumming Park Master Plan and present its findings to Mapleton Township council for further consideration.
The association plans to pursue a continuation of its partnership with the township and incorporate support from local businesses in the future development of the site.
On May 11 the community is invited to the Alma Community Centre for an evening presentation of the survey results. The outdoor event will include games, food and the sharing of ideas.
The association will also make survey results available at local Alma businesses and through the Alma Optimist Club.
De Bock encouraged members of the community to fill out a survey.
“It’s up to the people of Alma to create a vision beyond the immediate needs of the community. Imagine what it would look like in the future. Present ideas that are unique,” de Bock said.
“Don’t sit back; let your voice be heard.”
The link to the online survey is available on the Alma Community Recreation Association’s Facebook page. Completed surveys may be dropped off at the Alma Daisy Mart.
More information can be obtained by calling 519-505-2459.
