Council doesn’t move on church proposal for new park

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

An ambitious proposal for a new park and splash pad by Crosspoint Community Church was not endorsed by Tillsonburg council.

Church representative Brad Feyen presented council with the vision for the church at the April 27 meeting. The concept for the park developed when church members noted the lack of green space in the new development surrounding the church. They approached the developer and offered to purchase a piece of property behind the church to turn it into a park.

Feyen presented a plan that contains a splash pad, playground equipment, and a pavilion, but noted that the concept is scalable to proceed with part or all of it. The church is currently fundraising to cover the cost of the project, and Feyen asked council to consider funds for the project.

Deputy Mayor Dave Beres asked for more information on potential partnerships and the project's cost. Feyen said it ranged from $1 million for a scaled-back version to more than $2 million for the entire concept. He also said nothing will proceed before 2027.

Although the lands are owned by the church, Feyen said the project would be accessible to the public.

Coun. Kelly Spencer agreed that part of town needs a park, and asked about ongoing costs, while noting she wasn’t sure what the town could do on private property.

Coun. Chris Parker also wanted more information on the town’s contribution, saying a dollar value is needed prior to next year’s budget.

The presentation was received as information, but a suggestion was also made to present to the town’s parks committee.