When they thought it up in 2015, it seemed like a good idea: a deal between Arnprior and McNab-Braeside for recreational use of the Nick Smith Centre at par with fees paid by Arnprior residents.
That’s Recreation Director Graeme Ivory.
There are many ways to calculate a cost formula, but from Arnprior’s point of view, on a per capital basis, McNab-Braeside residents get off paying way less, and in some cases, squeeze Town residents out of user space at the NSC.
This discussion arises because McNab-Braeside has served notice it wants to quit the existing 2021 agreement as soon as this summer- so the deal as it stands has friends on neither side.
Arnprior Council received a staff presentation outlining options on whether to negotiate a new agreement with McNab-Braeside for use of the Nick Smith Centre, or agree with its neighbour and call things off.
It’s more complicated than per capita: Arnprior absorbs all capital costs including bills for unanticipated repairs; and, with municipal growth the Town may need more space for its own citizens.
Arnprior Treasurer Jennifer Morawiec indicated the matter would be discussed in camera to see how to proceed.
By Rick Stow
