With a similar project in neighbouring Wellesley Township as its model, the Breslau Lions Club wants to build a splash pad in the community.
The idea got a warm reception at Woolwich council March 19.
Looking for ways to enhance the community, the new club hit on the splash pad project, explained president Craig Mason. Formed two years ago, the club now has 15 members. A similar facility that opened last year at the Wellesley Community Centre was spearheaded by the Wellesley and District Lions Club.
As with that project, the Lions would do the fundraising needed to get the facility built, about $225,000, he said, noting it would be a two-year endeavour.
In addressing councillors, Mason asked for their support of the project, and for a recreation staff member to serve as a liaison on the building committee. As well, the township would be expected to make land available at the park in Breslau, and to assume ownership of the facility once it’s completed.
Woolwich would not be asked for money to build the splash pad, however, he said. The club will do all the fundraising, including making grant requests to the likes of the Ontario Trillium Foundation and Kitchener-Waterloo Community Foundation.
The service club has also been consulting with the Breslau Recreation Association.
In response to a question from Coun. Mark Bauman, recreation director Karen Makela said there is land available in the park, with operating the splash pad expected to cost approximately $6,000 a year once it’s turned over to the township.
Coun. Allan Poffenroth praised the club for its efforts, endorsing the project – “It would be nice to do it and have it available in Breslau.”
Still in the preliminary stages, the project will be the topic of ongoing discussions between the Lions and the township to sort out details before a campaign is launched.
