Currently in Bradford West Gwillimbury, parks can't be rented by private groups or organizations for private functions.
If Council accepts a staff recommendation, that could change.
In Committee of the Whole at Tuesday night's meeting of Town Council, councillors were asked by staff to consider allowing community and commercial groups and organizations to rent a portion of Henderson Park.
The area proposed for private rentals is the area dubbed "the upper meadow," located next to the woodlot and maintenance building, and fronting on Line 9.
Most parks in BWG have inadequate parking available, but the area of Henderson park under consideration does have 60 parking spaces, and is a short walk from the existing public washrooms. Because the area has no lighting, it would only be available for daytime events and rentals.
Staff proposed other restrictions: no alcohol, no product sales, no tents larger than 10' by 20', no inflatable rides or midway rides, no loud music or amplified sound systems, no animals and no fires.
Food trucks would be allowed to set up in the adjacent parking lots; patrons could also bring their own food.
The report noted that the area currently has no shade, power or water, and suggested that a costing could be provided for the 2021 budget, should Council wish to consider adding a barbecue pit, lighting or some kind of shade.
Coun. Peter Ferragine said he liked the idea of private rentals, suggesting, “It’s nice that people can have events on town property."
Coun. Mark Contois agreed. “I’m glad we actually have the opportunity. It's a positive for all and I fully support it.”
For a portion of Henderson Memorial Park to be eligible for private rentals, a permit policy would need to be developed, the Town's Parks By-law amended, and the User Fee Policy updated.
Proposed fees are $150 plus HST for a 6-hour rental by a community group (including set up and take down, six picnic tables and six garbage barrels), or $300 plus HST for a similar rental by a Corporate Group. Non-residents would pay an extra 15 percent.
Bookings of the space would only be available from May 15 - September 30, depending on area conditions. The report recommends that groups apply 90 days in advance, which means that for rentals to take place in the summer of 2020, the policies and fees would need to be in place by March 15, for a June 15 start.
Council, in Committee of the Whole recommended approval of the rental concept. The recommendation will come back for final approval at the next meeting of council.
