Bracebridge accepts a 17.6-acre land donation

The is situated beside the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre

Bracebridge General Committee agreed to accept a land donation, in the June 3, 2025, meeting.

According to the staff report, the Town was offered part lots 1 and 2 (legally referred to as part of Lot 2), Concession 2, in the former township of Monk from Willen Investments Incorporated.

The land encompasses 17.6 acres of vacant space, with vegetation and trees, except for a cleared portion in the north for the crossing of the TransCanada Pipeline.

In 2016 Willen initially donated 22 acres of land appraised at $1,215,000 to the Town to construct a new arena and fieldhouse, which is now the Muskoka Lumber Community Centre (MLCC). Last March they offered the additional land abutting the centre to the south.

In addition to providing receipts for the amount appraised for the land, the Town is required to conduct a Phase One Environmental Site Assessment to determine soil and water quality, and contamination. However, Council has agreed to waive the assessment.

Councillor, Don Smith, indicated that this donation is important because it makes more land available for the community, allowing the Town to “compliment outside activities and happenings” as a part of the MLCC. He added, “Just the perfect use.”

Other Committee members expressed appreciation and enthusiasm for the donation as well.

Councillor, Debbie Vernon, expressed concern about whether there will be issues with the snowmobile trail running through the land and if it would impact the club from using it.

Land Agreements Co-ordinator, Matt Gower, advised that there are other trails through Town lands and they have an agreement in place with the Ontario Federal Snowmobile Club.

He added that staff will “mitigate further risks with an additional agreement.” He said the club already provides existential insurance as well.