A public meeting to discuss recreation, and more precisely the future of the Clifford arena, has been set for March 1.
Minto councillor David Turton announced the coming meeting to council last week, saying he is hoping for a large turnout to discuss recreation in town and the future of the arena.
“Get out and help determine the future of Clifford recreation,” said Turton, chairman of the Clifford recreation committee.
“We have the capital, but we want to know what the people of the community want us to do.”
Six years ago the future of the facility was threatened after a consultant suggested it be shut down. That sparked considerable debate and the creation of a volunteer committee – the Clifford recreation association – to keep the facility operating. The committee eventually garnered some 140 members. Volunteers assisted with bookings and operated the snack bar.
Turton said with three arenas in Minto, council is looking to the public to determine the future of recreation in the town.
“We’re trying to make it (the meeting) a Minto thing,” he said. “We want everyone to come out and say where do you want us to spend tax dollars.”
“Now is the time,” Turton added. “We need to go out and ask the people what are we going to do?”
Mayor George Bridge said “We’re hoping for a full hall.”
Added Turton, “We’re hoping for a brainstorming session. There are no bad ideas.”
The meeting is set for March 1 at 7pm at the Clifford hall.
