Clarington Council Restructures Community Hall Management
The General Government Committee of Clarington, Ontario, has made significant changes to the management of community halls as part of the Hall Board Sustainability Project. During the meeting on October 7, 2024, the council decided to rescind a previous resolution that extended lease agreements with the Kendal Community Centre, Kendal Lions Club, and Kendal Postal Outlet until the end of 2025. The Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) has been authorized to terminate these leases.
In place of the previous agreements, the council will implement Municipal Capital Facility Agreements (MCFA) for several community halls, including the Hampton Community Hall, Brownsdale Community Centre, Memorial Park Clubhouse, Newtonville Town Hall, Kendal Community Centre, and Orono Town Hall. These agreements will be executed once the operating entities confirm their registered Not-For-Profit status.
The new MCFA for Kendal Community Centre will allow the entity to enter into sub-lease agreements with the Kendal Lions Club and Kendal Postal Outlet, ensuring these organizations can continue their operations within the community hall.
Additionally, the council has directed staff to collaborate with the Haydon Community Association to develop a framework for community partnership engagement. This initiative aims to enhance community involvement and ensure sustainable management of the community halls.
The council also plans to assess the operation of the Haydon Community Hall, with a focus on managing operating costs within the 2025 Community Services budget. These costs will be reviewed and included in the 2026 budget update.