In a co-delegation by Rob Stanley of the SPARKS training centre (SSTC) and Connie Barker of Pumpkinfest, it was requested that the Town provide $30,000 to extend the lease for the facility until the end of 2025. 
On Green Street, in what was the former Ambulance Centre, the SSTC has been using the building as its administration centre with the lease being paid by the Town until March 31, 2025.
“The funding for extending the lease is crucial for both organizations,” said Stanley, “as their operational sustainability and growth are at a pivotal moment in their respective journeys. The centre is an important institution in the town dedicated to empowering the youth of Bruce Grey and Huron counties through skilled development training and is well regarded for its commitment to excellence in youth training and community support and has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality programs that meet the needs of both participants and employers.”
Stanley added that over the past year, instructors have trained 213 participants whose skills have led to employment opportunities. “This dedicated office space is essential to effectively plan, develop and administer the training programs. The Centre is planning to utilize part of the building in 2025 to deliver virtual skills training and wrap-around support to enhance students’ employability. Without this space to effectively manage its training programs, the Centre would struggle to maintain its programs and maintain its critical presence in the community.”
Connie Barker also pointed out that Pumpkinfest is going into its 40th anniversary in 2025. “We are looking for space where we can be more visible in the community to make it easier to attract more sponsors, hire more staff and help us grow and be more accessible. The joint lease agreement would enable Pumpkinfest to maintain its operational efficiency and to support its growth to continue its success that brings significant economic and social benefit to the town.”
In conclusion, Stanley added that the funding would ensure that the town provides vital training programs that improve the employability and economic prospects of its residents and youth across the region, while also supporting Pumpkinfest, a community event that drives significant economic benefit and community spirit. “The funding is not only an operational expense for both organizations, it’s an investment in the future success and sustainability of both the Centre and Pumpkinfest.”
Although Mayor Luke Charbonneau said that he is in favour of the one-time funding this year and supports the two organizations, he also added that, “It is not sustainable to continue to provide operating funding toward facilities for organizations. I would like staff to go back and discuss alternative arrangements. We have other facilities that the town owns where we could perhaps accommodate them or do other in-kind things, or help them with.”
The recommendation was made that Council direct staff to include the $30,000 toward SSTC / Pumpkinfest as a one-time funding from the Tax Stabilization Reserve.
