Wilmot gets grant to upgrade refrigeration system at rec complex

Part of large funding announcement in Kitchener

Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris announced funding for several recreation project in Waterloo Region on Monday, including new refrigeration equipment for the Wilmot Recreation Complex. Photo by Lee Griffi

By Lee Griffi, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

It may not have been the biggest announcement of the day, but the news of a nearly $400,000 grant for the Township of Wilmot is a boost for a municipality in tough financial shape.

The township is receiving just under $380,000 to help replace end-of-life refrigeration equipment for the ice pads at the Wilmot Recreation Complex, boosting energy efficiency and ensuring the rinks can continue to serve the community.

A total of $11.8 million was doled out at a press conference Monday in Kitchener, including over $10 million to support the construction of a new quad-gymnasium at RBJ Schlegel Park and upgrades to other sports and recreational facilities in Waterloo Region.

“We are replacing some key components of the refrigeration plant to keep the ice maintained through the busy season, but this will also provide some resiliency over the next couple of decades for the system,” said Chris Catania, the township’s director of community services.

The total cost of the equipment replacement is in the neighbourhood of $755,000, meaning some of the money set aside in this year’s capital budget is free to go somewhere else.

“Even though council approved the capital budget for the full cost, that money can be saved and used elsewhere for other asset replacements.”

The township normally keeps one of the two ice pads in operation 12 months of the year, rotating them as needed.

“This year, we actually have to shut them both down to do the necessary equipment replacement,” said Catania.

Mayor Natasha Salonen spoke at the event and pointed to the importance of the Wilmot Recreation Centre as a hub for area residents.

"The Wilmot Recreation Complex is the heart of our community, a place where families come together, young athletes grow and residents of all ages stay active. It is home to teams like the Wilmot Wolverines, the Huskies, the Figure Skating Club and the New Hamburg Firebirds, and it plays a vital role in supporting youth, girls and community sports. We are deeply grateful to the provincial government for recognizing the importance of rural recreation and for supporting the long-term vitality of the Wilmot Recreation Complex."

Kitchener-Conestoga MPP Mike Harris explained investing in community spaces like the complex means investing in the health and wellbeing of families in Wilmot Township.

“This funding will ensure residents of all ages have access to quality recreation facilities for years to come. I’m proud that our government is supporting a project that protects opportunities for athletes, strengthens our community and enhances quality of life.” 

Harris also thanked Salonen for her support of rural recreation, ensuring residents of Wilmot have access to quality facilities and community spaces. He added the funding is an investment in the future of young people.

“These investments are more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about what brings sport to the community. It builds confidence in our kids, strengthens friendships, it teaches teamwork, discipline and resilience. It gives families a place to gather, connect and stay active together.”

The funding announcements are part of the $200 million Community Sport and Recreation Infrastructure Fund. The provincial government said the provincewide initiative helps communities revitalize local facilities, grow the economy and promote active, healthy living across Ontario. A total of $1.2 billion worth of applications were received by the province and successful applicants passed a rigorous process before being approved.

In Kitchener, $650,000 was earmarked to upgrade snowmaking equipment and lighting, and to purchase a new surface lift at the Chicopee Ski and Summer Resort. The Albert McCormick Community Centre in Waterloo was awarded $775,000 to upgrade entrances with sliding doors and automatic openers to improve accessibility. It will also see a refreshed lobby and new cooling systems to support year-round programming.

“At a time when Ontario families are facing rising costs due to tariffs, our government is proud to support organizations focused on delivering better services for people while breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for children and young people,” said Ontario Minister of Sport Neil Lumsden. “With investments in infrastructure like this, we are protecting Ontario jobs, strengthening our communities and building a more resilient and self-reliant economy.”