Chatham‑Kent council proposes higher fees for Clearville Park and reviews ARTspace relocation

Chatham‑Kent municipal staff have recommended that Clearville Park be operated on a full cost‑recovery basis, with user fees rising by about 115 % over five years to generate roughly $530,000 extra per season. The proposal also notes a need for $4.5 million in capital upgrades over the next decade and references recent boil‑water advisories that prompted $75,000 in repairs.

In a separate report, councillors are advised to allocate $100,000 from the Strategic Development Reserve for consultant work on a conceptual review of the Chatham Cultural Centre and to issue a request for expressions of interest for a third‑party operator of ARTspace. Public consultation showed mixed opinion: a small in‑person meeting largely opposed relocation, while an online survey showed 69 % support. The council will consider both the park‑fee plan and the ARTspace proposal at upcoming meetings.