LAURIE WEIR
Smiths Falls councillors are considering a multi-year funding request of $50,000 annually for five years from the Railway Museum of Eastern Ontario (RMEO), as staff weigh options to balance the museum’s capital needs with the town’s budget priorities.
The RMEO, the town’s largest tourism attraction, has asked for $250,000 over five years to help fund capital projects, including major repairs like a new roof and parking lot resurfacing. The request comes as the museum continues to grow, securing external grants and ending 2022 with a $66,000 surplus.
Julia Crowder, the town’s economic development and tourism manager, presented council with four options at the committee of the whole meeting on Monday, Dec. 16: work with RMEO on a 10-year capital project plan; approve the $50,000 annual funding; take no action and encourage RMEO to apply for the Community Grants Program; or provide alternative direction.
Coun. Jennifer Miller voiced support for the museum, noting its success does not eliminate the need for municipal help. “It’s a common misconception that a charity having a surplus and reserves is a bad thing,” she said, adding that reserves are essential for sustainability, just as they are for municipalities or private businesses.
Miller, alongside Couns. Steve Robinson, Jay Brennan and Dawn Quinn, supported further investigation into multi-year funding while placing a $50,000 placeholder in the 2025 budget. Robinson called for a “reliable funding allocation” to ensure RMEO does not have to return annually to request aid.
Mayor Shawn Pankow praised the museum’s role as a cornerstone of local tourism and volunteer-driven success. “They are a key cog in the wheel of tourism assets in our community,” he said, while recognizing the financial challenge of maintaining its aging assets, many over 100 years old.
Coun. Peter McKenna backed the staff recommendation to develop an asset management plan, while Coun. Chris McGuire emphasized the need for sustainable materials, such as avoiding landfill-bound asphalt shingles for the museum’s roof replacement.
The report will return to staff for further analysis, including comparisons with funding models from local municipalities. Council will decide on next steps at a future meeting.