More than 20 people appeared at a recent public meeting on the future of Fenella Hall, near Alderville, as Alnwick Haldimand Township councillors listened.
A range of questions and pleas were presented to politicians as community members, many from the area, sought to keep the facility open.
The hall is losing money. In 2024, it cost the township more than $31,000 but brought in barely $11,000 in revenue. This year, it cost taxpayers nearly $22,000, with almost $5,000 in income.
The 2018 Parks and Recreation Master Plan raises questions about its sustainability.
The hall is closed to the Alnwick Civic Centre, creating a possible duplication of services. This is counter to the township’s broader strategic direction of creating community hubs, Logel told the crowd.
Various user groups, including a line-dancing club, along with individual residents, made their case, saying the facility is vital to the community. Former Mayor Gail Latchford also appeared, adding her comments to the presentations.
Specific suggestions also included reinstating community centre committees, improving rental affordability, and exploring alternative uses. The meeting highlighted a lack of detailed information by some presenters and a call for better community engagement and informed decision-making.
The decision will now rest with the council as it proceeds with its 2026 budget process.
The public meeting:
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