Saugeen Shores council will not support a proposal to have a splash park out in the water off Port Elgin’s main beach this summer.
Back in December 2024, the proponents of Splash City Fun Park Inc. approached council to express an interest in setting up an inflatable water park.
A staff report says it’s made by the same manufacturer that has made parks used in Barrie, St. Marys, Muskoka, Hamilton, Puslinch, Orillia, Port Colborne, Mount Albert and Milton.
The idea was to have it east of the breakwall, and the proponents were going through the approval process with a variety of federal and provincial departments to gain the necessary approvals.
Staff had fast tracked the process locally, in the interest of being ready for the summer, if approved, as they had recommended for a one year agreement with public feedback after the first year.
Those in favour of approving the park were Mayor Luke Charbonneau, Councillor Rachel Stack and Councillor Dave Myette, all of whom spoke in favour of supporting the idea and felt it would be a fun activity, especially older kids.
Those opposed included Deputy Mayor Diane Huber who felt is was rushed and explained she had some safety concerns. Councillor Cheryl Grace also had concerns about safety and beach congestion. Councillor Mike Myatt expressed concern it would make parking busier and felt the community should be consulted. Councillor John Divinski also felt it was rushed.