RECREATION:

Over the past eight years on Council, I have been proud to be part of the work that has continued to improve our parks, trails, waterfront and recreation spaces. There is more to do, and I believe these investments are an important part of how we make Smiths Falls an attractive place to live, raise a family and grow older. There have been incredible strides in making our public recreation spaces accessible, safe and attractive. As we renew playgrounds and public spaces, accessibility should be built into the planning from the beginning so that children, aging adults and all bodies can participate fully in community life.

 

I will continue moving forward with the plans for Lower Reach Park, building on the public consultation that has already taken place and protecting what people value about this remarkable waterfront space while improving how it can be used. Better trails and connections, accessible amenities, and recreation opportunities are all established in the Lower Reach plan, making it an even greater asset for residents and visitors. As mayor, I will ensure the continued work improving the connections between our parks, trails, neighbourhoods, downtown and waterfront. Smiths Falls has an extraordinary advantage in the Rideau Canal and as our community grows, it is important to invest in making our trails and waterways enjoyable for all people to walk, cycle, plan and paddle on.

 

The proposed Regional Recreation Facility remains an opportunity, but the financial circumstances have changed. With the recent grant application unsuccessful, I do not believe Smiths Falls taxpayers should be expected to carry a project of this scale alone. I support continuing the planning work so that we are ready if the right partnership can be built. But moving into construction must depend on strong, meaningful financial commitments from neighbouring municipalities and other funding partners. A regional facility needs to be funded as a regional facility. I will not support an approach that places an unreasonable financial burden on Smiths Falls residents. I have said throughout this process that recreation planning should not be “all or nothing.” We can continue working toward a regional facility while also making practical, achievable investments in the recreation spaces people use every day. Smiths Falls is already a community where getting outside and being active is possible, and as your Mayor, I will work with council and the community to ensure it is accessible, safe, enjoyable and inviting.

 

As young families continue to grow in our community, we can be proud that our parks are spaces children are excited to visit, and that our waterfront has numerous spaces where families want to spend time. These investments matter to me because they also matter to the people who already call Smiths Falls home, and they matter to young families deciding where they want to put down roots. We should continue building a town where families can come here, stay here and find the quality of life they need as their families grow, and where folks can age with quality of life and vitality.