Huntsville Committee Defers Decision on Waterfront Sauna Proposal for Public Input

The proposal calls for a sauna operation at the Town Docks or River Mill Park

Huntsville's General Committee deferred a decision for a proposed commercial sauna and cold plunge operation on municipally owned waterfront property, in the June 24, 2026, meeting.

The consideration follows an April 29 deputation from Mike Prince, who requested permission to operate the year-round venture at the Town Docks or River Mill Park.

Staff have since examined potential locations, environmental and operational impacts, lease requirements and regulatory considerations before presenting two options to Committee.

The report notes that Town Docks would require replacing two existing finger docks, reducing public dock space during the boating season, while River Mill Park could offer year-round washroom access and may help deter unauthorized swimming. However, neither site currently has sufficient electrical capacity for an electrically heated sauna without upgrades.

Staff noted that alternative heating sources such as wood or propane, combined with solar or battery-powered lighting, could reduce those concerns.

Environmental groups consulted by the Town did not oppose the concept but raised concerns about impacts on fish habitat, water quality, seasonal flooding, snow clearing, and cleaning products entering the river. They also recommended minimizing relocation of the structure by using a permanent location where possible and suggested an environmental impact assessment be completed.

Tourism organizations, including the Huntsville/Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, Explore Huntsville and the Downtown Huntsville BIA, expressed support for the proposal, saying it could benefit tourism and economic development.

The report also outlines numerous lease conditions, including fair market rent, proof of regulatory approvals, insurance requirements, maintenance responsibilities, public safety measures and recovery of utility costs to ensure taxpayers do not subsidize the commercial operation.

Committee was presented with two options: approve the operation on municipal property and direct staff to negotiate a lease agreement at fair market value plus cost recovery, or decline the request and instead have staff continue helping the proponent explore opportunities with private property owners, funders and tourism organizations.

Committee agreed that public consultation should be included in their decision and deferred the motion until they receive more information resulting from that and after staff consult further with the applicant.

Councillor, Scott Morrison, suggested that staff also consult with nearby businesses, such as hotels and other accommodators, to find out if the sauna operation would benefit them as an added attraction they can introduce to guests.

Staff will report back with findings in an upcoming meeting with a date to be determined.