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Here are a selection of Frequently Asked Questions:

Why do we need a recreational complex?
For over 20 years, the residents of Clarence-Rockland have been asking for a community complex with a pool, gym facilities, a better library and a gathering place to host meetings, plays and classes. This proposed community complex addresses all of these wishes and more.

What happens if we don’t do this project?
Not going ahead with this project is an option but not one that addresses the needs of the community. The need for a Recreational and Cultural Complex and the interest and capacity to support it has been well researched and substantiated.

Who are the main partners committed to the vision of a Recreational and Cultural Complex?

  • Conseil scolaire de district catholique de l’Est Ontarien
  • The public library
  • The YMCA-YWCA
  • The city of Clarence-Rockland
  • The citizens of the community

What kinds of things are included in this new facility?

  • Indoor pools (a therapeutic pool, a shallow warm water pool, and a 4-lane 25 meter pool);
  • 7,700 square foot Fitness Centre with weight equipment, complete with an indoor walking/running track;
  • Regulation-size gymnasium for team sports and separate aerobic and dance rooms;
  • A 450-seat cafeterium to showcase live theatre with professional sound and lighting equipment as well as a retractable screen to showcase movie-nights;
  • An integrated Public and School Library with a large, updated book collection, more computer equipment and programming;
  • A bistro-style promenade where people can meet before or after their activities.

I don’t see a Health Clinic in the plans – I thought we were having one?
The team of physicians originally interested in the project has chosen to withdraw from the project and is relocating the clinic within Clarence-Rockland.

Is the Community Complex open to all schools and school boards?
Yes, in fact, all of the school boards participated in the initial discussions of the Recreational and Cultural Complex. They have provided valuable input during this process and all school boards and students will be using the Complex.

Are you cutting down the trees?
We are not removing the plantation. Some trees will have to be cut to accommodate this development. We are working with a tree specialist who will evaluate and advise us on the condition of the trees. Our plans include replacing the trees that are removed.

What is the fundraising goal?
The total cost of the project is $18.7 million – we have secured $14.7 million of that and now are embarking on a $4 million community fundraising campaign.

Where are you going to find the money?
We believe that raising the community’s share of the project is possible. Our board members, volunteers and staff are leading the way by making significant personal gifts. Once people hear that a solution exists to increase the quality of life, access to a wide variety of programs, a great new theatre and enhanced library, support follows. Individuals and companies are coming forward to support the Recreational and Cultural Complex because it makes good business sense and directly addresses the needs of the citizens of this area.

How much money are the provincial and federal governments contributing?
Currently, we have received $161,000 from the provincial government through the Rural Economic Development Program as well as $3 million from the Department of Health Promotion of Ontario. We are investigating other ministries’ priorities and how our Recreational and Cultural Complex fits into their agenda before we make other formal proposals for support.

What is the City of Clarence-Rockland’s role in this project?
The City of Clarence-Rockland has invested $12.2 million in the project. This includes a gift from the sale of Rockland Hydro, a percentage of new home development charges, and a long-term loan. This will enable the City to ensure that this community project moves forward.

Do we need to raise $4 million in one year?
It is our goal to raise $4 million over the next year. This means that we need everyone’s commitment to support the campaign this year, although your financial gift can be pledged over 3-5 years.

If we exceed our $4 million goal, what will be done with the money?
The more successful our fundraising campaign, the less the impact will be on the individual municipal tax bill.

What happens if the project costs exceed budget and money raised?
We have a structured contingency plan in place. With a professional project team and the oversight of the steering committee, the Recreational and Cultural Complex will be built within budget.

What can I do to help?
There are a number of ways that you can help support the Recreational and Cultural Complex project:

  • Help spread the word that plans to build a Community Complex have begun. Support is welcomed and needed;
  • Support our fundraising endeavours;
  • Have you on board with us as a volunteer. You can get involved as much or as little as you want.