The staff report, “Ferguson Forest Centre Update and Options”, prepared by Chief Administrative Officer Karen Dunlop, for the upcoming North Grenville Council meeting on Tuesday, November 5, unequivocally states that the option of the 13-acre land disposition must be taken off the table. The report emphasizes that "staff continue to explore alternatives for sustainable funding for the FFC without the sale of municipal land," staff recommendations prioritize retaining municipal land assets. To fully align with this approach, the North Grenville Council must go beyond acknowledging the staff reports direction, taking decisive action by formally shutting down the land disposition of our 13 acres of heritage agriculture zoned land.
North Grenville Council must acknowledge not only the staff but also the strong community opposition to the land sale, as expressed in a previous delegation and reinforced by the 1,171 signatures on the petition to halt the land disposition. Council’s decision should reflect these voices and maintain focus on sustainable solutions that preserve community resources.
We encourage all supporters to attend the upcoming North Grenville Council meeting to show solidarity. This is a pivotal moment for our North Grenville/Kemptville community, and your presence matters. The meeting begins at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, everyone is welcome. Let’s come together to stand united for the future of our community and ensure our collective voice is seen, respected and preserve our cultural & agricultural heritage land.
This heritage agriculture zoned land is entrusted to our current NG Council, passed down from previous Councils as a symbol of commitment to protect and preserve it for future generations.
Summary of Staff Report: Ferguson Forest Centre Update and Options
The report prepared by Chief Administrative Officer Karen Dunlop, set to be presented to Council on November 5, 2024, outlines the Ferguson Forest Centre’s (FFC) request for $400,000 in municipal funding to address financial challenges that could jeopardize its operations. The FFC, which runs a 300-acre tree nursery and provides community recreational spaces, has faced revenue issues due to aging infrastructure and water quality problems affecting seedling production.
Key Findings:
The FFC is a vital environmental and recreational asset in North Grenville, but it is currently struggling financially.
Without municipal assistance, the FFC may need to shut down its nursery operations.
The FFC's prior request in 2022 involved seeking permission to sell adjacent land for financial support.
Options for Council Consideration:
Bridge Financing with Conditions:
Approve a $400,000 loan with requirements, including:
Governance updates, ONCA-compliant bylaws, and director term enforcement.
Mortgage registration on FFC property with interest-only payments for two years.
Annual financial reporting and a revised business plan submission.
Engagement of a third-party consultant for board governance review.
Bridge Financing with Additional Recreational Provisions:
Approve funding under Option 1, with the added condition of transferring recreational land management back to the Municipality, formalized through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Decline Financial Assistance and Develop Transition Plan:
Decline the funding request and coordinate a plan for winding down FFC operations, transitioning management and land back to the Municipality.
Financial and Strategic Implications:
Options 1 and 2 involve immediate cash outflows funded by Municipal Reserves, with repayment risks noted.
Option 3 preserves municipal cash flow but may impact tax levies starting in 2025.
The decision should align with the Municipality's strategic goals of economic resilience, community engagement, and sustainability.
Consultation and Communication: The report has been informed by discussions between the Municipality, FFC, and Community Futures Grenville (CFG). An external consultant is assisting the FFC with water system upgrade plans. A comprehensive communication strategy will follow Council’s decision to ensure clear information is shared with stakeholders.
Access the North Grenville Council Meeting Agenda and Staff Reports