Dear Supporters,

I hope this message finds you well. We're writing to update you on recent developments regarding the proposal for the United Church Building and the recent postponement of the Gellert Park expansion, which has raised significant concerns among our community.

The Gellert Park expansion project didn’t make the cut in the 2025 budget, citing an overinflated cost estimate of $8 million dollars even with no land acquisition required. The mayor will be seeking provincial funding of $4 million and will then look for fundraising to secure the additional $4 million. This decision comes at a time when growth over the next 10 years is imminent and the need for adequate park and community amenities to support existing and future residents will be crucial. It’s important that we advocate for the recreational spaces our community deserves and that our tax dollars should be supporting. It was also noted that given the Town’s budget realities, if the application to the province is not successful, then the park development project would not proceed in the near future.

Additionally, with this update, concerns have come up about the potential affect that this could have, specifically the potential for the town to sell or transfer lands deemed "unused." There are whispers that these lands could be sold to the United Church/Kindred Works and may be part of the town/mayor's plan for a portion of this land. This would further limit our community's access to the much-needed expansion of the Gellert and goes against what many in our community desire. Over 1500 signed.

Now, more than ever, we must stand together to voice our concerns and demand a transparent process that prioritizes our community’s needs. Our community deserves a dome for indoor soccer, pickleball courts, and a skating path that families could enjoy in the winter! Let’s work to ensure that our parks remain accessible and that any future plans align with the interests of our existing residents and tax dollars.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a difference.

Please continue to use your voice and contact the mayor and local councilors to demand transparency on where your tax dollars are going. And please share this petition with your fellow neighbours and Georgetown residents.