Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SOUTHWEST MIDDLESEX - The waiving of facility rental fees for the YMCA Summer Day Camp program was unanimously approved by council during its February 4 meeting, clearing the way for the camp to return to the Southwest Middlesex Recreation Centre in summer 2026.
The report was introduced by Kevin Miller, Manager of Community Services and Facilities, who explained that the YMCA had requested to operate the program again after a successful 2025 season. “This is a report on the waiving of fees for the YMCA summer camp that we hosted last year at the arena, and they have requested to come back again this summer,” Miller told council.
Councillors were briefed on the program’s performance last year, which saw strong participation. Responding to a question from Councillor Ed Myers, Miller said the camp served 131 children in 2025, making it one of the YMCA’s larger programs, and noted that organizers are hoping to increase enrolment to approximately 160 campers in 2026.
Discussion also highlighted the use of the recreation facility during the summer months. Councillor Mark McGill said the program makes good use of the arena at a time when it had historically seen limited activity. He pointed to recent upgrades, including new air conditioning and dehumidification systems, which have made the space suitable for summer use.
Council clarified details around the camp’s operating timeline, confirming that the program would run until August 28, 2026, after which ice installation would begin ahead of fall hockey activities. Miller confirmed the date and noted that the later Labour Day this year allows the camp to operate through the end of August.
Mayor Allan Mayhew raised questions about the financial impact of waiving the rental fees. Miller responded that the camp operates during daytime hours and does not prevent other rentals, adding that the YMCA is willing to adjust its schedule if other bookings arise. As a result, staff do not anticipate a loss of revenue.
With no further questions, council voted unanimously to approve the recommendation, allowing the YMCA Summer Day Camp to operate rent-free at the recreation centre for the 2026 season, with the fee structure to be reviewed in 2027.
