The public spit-balled what Minden Hills could look like in five years on Jan. 29 – as consultant Arising Collective provided a forum as part of the township’s strategic planning process.
Facilitator, Andy Mitchell, asked participants at the Minden Community Centre to not self-censor but “describe what you would like to see done in Minden over the next five years.”
Gull Lake resident, Jim Ecclestone, who purchased the Rockcliffe in the downtown, said, “first thing, tear down the Beaver Theatre. The town should take over ownership of that… it’s a real eyesore and I think it’s extremely important.”
Andy Campbell chimed in, “do something with the (old) fire hall. It’s been abandoned for a long time. There are a lot of ideas out there. Just get on with it.”
Fay Martin added she’d like something done with the whole area between the river and the township parking lot. “Something gorgeous that celebrates the river.”
Another person suggested extending the Riverwalk, all the way to Rotary Park. Lynda Litwin spoke of a need to break down silos, from township staff, to councillors, to volunteers. “There is very little crossover in my perception,” she said. Litwin added staff and some councillors do not even attend community events. Another audience member said a seniors living residence providing different levels of medical support is needed in Minden. “There’s so many seniors who move out of Minden because they need some kind of care,” he commented. The man added if they were to stay, their children and grandchildren would visit the town.
Sally Moore, a Rotarian who owns and operates Sunny Rock Bed and Breakfast, commented on the lack of a tourist information centre in Minden, noting there is just a small table in the County of Haliburton building that no one knows is there. She would like a tourism information sign, at least. She also commented on the lack of reliable broadband and cell service in some areas. She noted a positive has been the community becoming more accepting in equity and inclusion.
Martin said she would also like a more robust economic development focus, “that isn’t entirely on bringing people from away, but also on developing ‘good, year-round, well-paying jobs’.”
‘The dirty cousin to Haliburton’
People entering the community centre at the beginning of the evening were asked to write one word they associate with Minden on Post-its. Words such as “community, friendly, support each other, and community assets.” were placed on the wall.
Other talking points included: the impact of the loss of the Minden emergency room; the need for a swimming pool and/or splashpad, or other things to attract young families; a lack of public transportation and housing; the importance of service clubs and volunteerism; a perception staff is not responsive enough; and the need to bring back Music on the Gull to the downtown.
Business owner Shawn Smandych said Minden has never really had an identity, but an untrue perception it is “the dirty cousin to Haliburton.” He said Minden is the gateway to the Highlands, with four major highways coming into the township. He said they also need to celebrate the fact they have the Minden Whitewater Preserve, Minden Pride, an OJHL hockey team, and the new S.G. Nesbitt Memorial Arena and Community Centre. “They’re all positives but we never use positive language.” He said there is also a lack of township support which he feels is impacting businesses.
As part of its work, Arising Collective has done interviews, held roundtable discussions, talked to councillors and staff, and did a second, virtual, town hall Jan. 30. They also put out a survey that had attracted more than 400 respondents as of last week. They will compile their results in a future report to council on a five-year strategic plan.
