Written By Olena Riznyk
NORTH MIDDLESEX – Following Council’s approval on June 18, a new partnership between the Municipality of North Middlesex and Locality Wellness Hub is now in effect, ensuring continued access to youth summer programming at the Ailsa Craig Recreation Centre.
The new lease agreement, presented by Brandon Drew, Director of Economic Development and Community Services, allows Locality Wellness – a community-based organization with experience operating summer camps in both Parkhill and Ailsa Craig – to deliver weekly camps throughout the summer.
Locality Wellness began operating at the Ailsa Craig Recreation Centre on June 26, under a lease that continues through September 26, 2025. Camps officially began on July 2 and will run through August 30, operating five days a week, Monday through Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The lease sets a rate of $5 per camper per day, offering flexibility for the provider while still allowing the Municipality to recover operating costs. This structure allows camps to proceed even with low registration numbers and avoids requiring changes to the municipal user fee by-law, as the arrangement is formally structured as a lease rather than a discounted rental.
To balance summer programming with other community needs, the lease includes a provision that the facility must remain available for evening rentals. Storage arrangements must be coordinated with municipal staff to avoid conflicts between camp use and evening bookings.
The Municipality retains responsibility for ensuring the facility is delivered in good condition and for providing regular cleaning services. Locality Wellness is responsible for all programming, staffing, and supervision during operating hours, and is expected to maintain cleanliness throughout the day. Any damage resulting from use must be reported to staff and repaired at the organization’s expense. Additionally, Locality Wellness must report any safety concerns or incidents related to the facility or nearby park amenities.
The lease further requires that Locality Wellness comply with all applicable provincial laws and regulations, including the Child Care and Early Years Act. The financial implications of the agreement, including expected revenue and any associated operational costs, will be monitored by municipal staff and included in the 2025 Community Services variance report. The lease was approved unanimously by Council with no discussion.
