Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - Council has approved a new agreement with the Glencoe Agricultural Society to formally designate the Glencoe Agricultural Hall as the municipality’s primary emergency shelter. The decision, made during the May 7 council meeting, aims to improve local preparedness and response capacity during emergencies, including severe weather events and large-scale evacuations.
CAO Amanda Gubbels presented the staff report, explaining that the Agricultural Hall offers clear advantages over current shelter options such as the Glencoe Arena. “The location offers significant improvements over our current shelter site, more physical space and better amenities,” said Gubbels. “It provides large open spaces as well as multiple rooms—something we look for when establishing shelters.”
The agreement outlines the responsibilities of both the municipality and the Agricultural Society, guaranteeing municipal access in emergencies and paving the way for future discussions, including the possible installation of a generator at the site. Gubbels noted that while no immediate financial commitments are tied to the agreement, any future costs—such as generator installation—would be brought back to council for approval.
Councillors raised questions about the suitability of other municipal buildings. Councillor Ed Myers asked whether the Glencoe Arena could serve the same purpose, especially if fitted with a generator. Gubbels explained that while the Arena and other facilities such as the Ekfrid Community Centre remain viable as alternate shelters, the Agricultural Hall is currently better suited to host large numbers of evacuees. “The usable space in the arena is limited, especially in winter,” she said.
Deputy Mayor Mike Sholdice and Councillor Mark McGill both emphasized the need for a generator at the new primary shelter. “Eventually, it’s going to be needed,” said Sholdice. Gubbels clarified that while both parties have expressed interest in exploring generator options, this report does not involve such a commitment. “It’s something we may look at in the future, potentially through grant funding,” she added.
Fire Chief Gary Johnston confirmed that the Glencoe Agricultural Hall would also serve as the alternate Emergency Operations Centre and noted that in the case of localized emergencies—such as in Wardsville—other community centres could still be used depending on circumstances. “We have mobile equipment and would use the most appropriate location based on the nature of the emergency,” he explained.
Council members stressed the importance of remaining flexible and maintaining multiple shelter options across the municipality. “It’s not the only building we will ever use,” said Mayor Allan Mayhew, “but it meets the requirements we are obligated to fulfill under our Emergency Management Plan.”
The motion to approve the agreement was moved by Councillor Don McCallum and seconded by Councillor Ed Myers. It passed unanimously. While the agreement doesn’t immediately include the addition of backup power, the discussion made clear that council views such infrastructure as a long-term goal.
