Perth council was asked to direct staff to formally approach Drummond/North Elmsley, Tay Valley Township and Lanark Highlands about jointly advancing a regional recreation facility.
Their report said the region has long identified the need for more aquatic space, an additional ice pad and flexible indoor recreation facilities.
Existing infrastructure is aging, operating near capacity and not keeping pace with current or future demand.
Each municipality would be tasked with putting up to $40K each for the work. Councillor Jim Boldt said he was uncomfortable pledging the funds without knowing how committed the other communities were.
Other municipalities are already moving ahead. Carleton Place has obtained preliminary pricing for a multi-use recreation facility with aquatic components, while Smiths Falls has set aside $250,000 in its 2026 budget to begin planning for a regional facility.
Perth Director Cathy McNally said two of the three neighbouring municipalities had already committed the funds
Perth CAO Michael Touw said in his discussions with provincial staff, that, without partnerships and complete plans, Queen’s Park funding was unlikely. Council’s committee approved the spending