As you know, I watch a few videos and read all kinds of information to generate these discussions.

I recently watched videos of the Mayor and CAO McNeil at the AGM of the WBRPA. After watching the presentation Andrew McNeil put on regarding the proposed Hub beside the Twin Pad Arena/ Library, I was shocked at many things. Two specifically caused me to write to the Mayor for clarification.

When you see or hear things that are wrong, write in and ask. I have not had a response yet.

On a few occasions now, I have heard them say that the Town was on a list for 1/3,1/3,1/3 funding for a hub back in Brian’s first term. (2014-18) They go on to say the next Council walked away from these funds. I do not think any of this is true. I will be the first to admit I missed something if they show the proof, but I do not recall ANY funding announcements.

This was one of the big stories that got this Council elected, but why do they keep repeating it?

Mr. McNeils presentation was all about the new Community Hub they are boasting about planning. But, when I watched the presentation, I was shocked to see it’s really got very little to do with the Town. It looks like maybe we are allowing the Catholic School Board to share parking with our existing TPAL, but as I recall, parking when that facility was planned was already at maximum required density. Why are we giving away town parking? Do they not think the library or arenas will need the spaces during the school days?

There was a question about cost and McNeil said it would cost the tax payers zero dollars to build this. He repeated this several times. There is an auditorium the town plans to have use of as a theatre and he said we might have to pay for the sound system but would likely find sponsorship.

I think we committed spending $50,000.00 to explore the possibility of building this hub. Was that money spent? Was that part of the “Zero”?

Below is my letter to the Mayor. I will let you know when I hear back?

Mayor Smith,

I recently listened to the presentation at the WBRPA AGM, regarding the Towns new Community Hub.

This is at least the second time I have heard mention of being on a list for funding. Andrew McNeal clearly stated that the Town of Wasaga Beach had been on a list with the Wynn Government for 1/3, 1/3, 1/3 funding for the Community Hub on Main Street (during your last term of office) I note that you spoke after Mr. McNeil at the meeting and did not clarify or correct the statement.

So, could you please provide information as to the exact list we were on for funding and any possible details about when and how we got on that list?

To be clear, I did not think we had ever been added to any funding commitments from the government of Ontario or Canada for the Main Street Hub and I want to know if I missed something.

The second item I would like clarification on is that Mr.McNeil claimed that the new Hub, beside the TPAL would be at no cost to the taxpayers of Wasaga Beach (as long as the speakers in the auditorium get sponsorship). Is this true? No cost?

Answers to these questions are important to me as a Wasaga Beach taxpayer.

Regards,

Mark Winegarden