Chatham-Kent residents are not ready to see Clearville Park sold off just yet.
In a motion brought forth by Ward 3 Councillor John Wright at Monday night’s council meeting, council voted unanimously in favour of deferring the divestment of Clearville Park until consultation has been completed.
Wright hopes that a report will come back to council in the fall with options of full or partial cost recovery and divestment options, along with any feasible partnership opportunities.
Council previously approved the divestment of the Clearville Campground and adjacent parkland in the 2025 Budget Update.
Several residents made depositions asking council for this motion to pass including Susanne Spence Wilkins who hopes the park could be revitalized back to its former glory.
“I think we can all agree that Clearville Park is not being managed with a vision for sustainability and vitality,” Wilkins told council. “We need to work together to make that happen to sell a space that benefits the many so that it can be owned by a few.”
Wilkins also shared her memories of the park near Muirkirk.
“For seven generations my family has benefitted from this lake access,” said Wilkins. “Since it became a park we have enjoyed camping, fishing, ice cream at the store, family reunions at the pavilion, time on the beach, hiking in the forest, tobogganing on the hill, and watching wildlife and birds.”
Mayor Darrin Canniff praised the community members who came armed to share their stories about the park.
The report is estimated to cost around $10,000 and will include public meetings to help formulate the report.
“My family is not uncommon in Orford township. Clear Creek and Clearville are at the center of our story. From First Nations to settlers to today,” Wilkins added.
