Kawartha Lakes seeks public input on long-term recreation facility plan

DARRYL KNIGHT Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for The Standard

KAWARTHA LAKES: Residents are being asked to help determine the future of recreation facilities across the City of Kawartha Lakes, as the municipality begins work on a long-term plan to guide investments in community centres, arenas, swimming pools, and other recreational spaces.

The City has launched its Recreation Facility Master Plan, a project which builds on the 2025 Parks and Recreation Strategic Plan and will help shape decisions about how recreation infrastructure is renewed, expanded, and improved over the coming years.

Municipal officials said, the plan is intended to ensure recreation facilities continue to meet the needs of a growing and changing population while making the best use of available resources.

As part of the process, residents are encouraged to share their experiences and priorities, through, the City's online engagement platform, Jump In.

Community feedback will help identify how existing recreation facilities are being used, where gaps in services or programming may exist, and what improvements residents would like to see in the future. The City also hopes the consultation will help guide decisions around accessibility and inclusion, opportunities for partnerships and shared services, and planning for future population growth.

For many families, the review is an opportunity to highlight the importance of modern, well-maintained recreation spaces.

"Our kids play hockey in the winter, soccer and baseball in the summer, and they also use community centres for other programs," said Sarah Mitchell, a Lindsay parent of three. "Good recreation facilities make a huge difference for families. I'd like to see the City plan ahead, so there are enough spaces to keep up with growth and make sure programs remain accessible and affordable."

Local seniors also have a stake in the future of recreation facilities, particularly as more residents look to stay active later in life.

"Recreation isn't just about organized sports," said Gary Reid, a Fenelon Falls retiree. "Many of us rely on arenas, walking tracks, pools, and community centres to stay healthy and connected. I hope the City continues investing in facilities that serve all ages, not just younger residents." According to the municipality, the completed Recreation Facility Master Plan will provide a long-term strategy, to ensure residents have access to the right recreation facilities, in the right locations, at the right time.

Officials note, the plan will also help prioritize future investments in municipal recreation infrastructure and support sustainable decision-making as community needs continue to evolve.

Residents interested in participating can learn more and complete the online survey, through the City's Jump In engagement website. Those who require an alternate method of providing feedback can contact the Parks and Recreation Division by email, at recreation@kawarthalakes.ca, or by calling 705-324-9411, extension 1301.

City officials encourage residents of all ages and from all communities to take part, noting, public feedback will play an important role in shaping recreation services and facilities for years to come.