Mapleton Township and the Optimist Club of Alma have discussed for some time the possibility of a new community hall in Wallace Cumming Park.
And it appears both sides are in favour of an agreement, which could be coming soon.
Optimist Club member Les Skerritt came to council last week seeking approval of a 10-year agreement, which the club has already presented to the township’s parks, culture and recreation committee.
“Hopefully this is the first step towards a new community hall,” Skerritt said of the agreement.
“I think it can be a good partnership for everyone involved.”
The agreement proposed by the Optimists calls for a managements committee composed of two township representatives, two community parks committee members, and four Optimist Club members.
The township will maintain ownership of the hall and property, with the committee overseeing its day-to-day operation, including:
– bookings;
– cleaning;
– heat and electrical bills;
– routine maintenance;
– interior furnishings; and
– rules and budgets for the hall.
Mayor John Green complimented the club for all its work at the Alma park, as well as on the proposed agreement.
“It’s fair to say that council looks forward to a partnership,” Green said.
The details of an agreement, whether it is the one proposed by the club or something different, need to be discussed in detail, Green added.
The mayor said he would like to have an answer for the club by Jan. 22, when the township holds its committee of the whole meeting.
Green said having a new community hall in Alma is “very important,” and something the township has thought about for some time.
“Hopefully we can go forward together and get this done,” he said.
Before thanking council, Skerritt replied, “That’s the only way it will work.”
