Parks committee to explore design options and costs for Elgin park plan
ELGIN — Rideau Lakes council is moving to reverse course on a previously declared surplus property in Elgin, reopening discussion about turning the site into a community park.
At the April 13 committee of the whole, members supported a recommendation to rescind an earlier decision to declare the Harry Seeley Drive property surplus, keeping the land in municipal hands while future use is reconsidered.
The proposal also directs the parks and recreation committee to bring forward ideas and costing for a potential park.
Discussion revealed a clear divide around the land’s future.
Mayor Arie Hoogenboom questioned the timing.
“My thoughts on this is that this is an issue that should be dealt with by the next council,” he said, adding the property could still be suitable for housing. “I still feel that this is an ideal piece of property for future housing development.”
Others pushed back, pointing to the property’s history and community expectations.
Coun. Debbie Hutchings said the land had been given with recreation in mind and should be treated that way.
“I think we should honour what people want, because that was their intention,” she said. “I can’t see how morally we can change something that somebody gave in good faith.”
Coun. Linda Carr echoed that view, saying the push for a park is coming from residents, not council.
“This is not council, it’s the community that’s wanting it,” she said.
There were also concerns about funding priorities. Coun. Paula Banks said council needs to be cautious about tying future grant money, specifically through the Ontario Trillium Foundation, to a park project when other needs may arise next year.
“We might possibly need it for Lower Beverley Lake,” she said, referring to potential infrastructure costs.
Despite those concerns, other members said moving the idea forward now makes sense.
“I don’t see the harm in starting to look into these options now and get a plan together,” said Coun. Dustin Bulloch.
Staff clarified that the motion to rescind the surplus designation must still be formally approved at a future council meeting before any new direction, including park designation, can proceed.
The amended recommendation was carried, with further decisions expected in the coming months.
Keep connected to your community—Read the latest Rideau Lakes news.
