Community Board Prepares for Busy Summer Season with Arts and Events Focus
MELGUND TOWNSHIP, Ont. — The Local Services Board of Melgund met Monday evening at the community hall, covering a range of topics from upcoming arts and music events to property concerns related to the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) programs.
The meeting began with the approval of the February 24 minutes, which passed without amendments. One of the main topics addressed was the need for a volunteer to fill the July 2025 slot in the community’s garbage roster. The updated roster will be posted at both mailbox message boards.
Community members reflected positively on the recent Games Night held on March 9, noting strong attendance and praising the chefs. The next event, combined with a pizza night, is scheduled for April 13 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Organizers confirmed it will be the final Games Night before a summer hiatus.
However, the scheduled Ice Fishing Derby, originally set for March 23 on Melgund Lake, has been postponed due to poor weather conditions. A new date has yet to be announced.
Looking ahead, planning for this year’s Canada Day celebrations is set to begin in April. Additionally, preliminary plans are underway for the Hot August Night Music Festival and Jamboree, tentatively set for mid-August. Organizers say the event will celebrate local musicians, artists and performers, offering a platform for community members to come together and showcase their talents. Events like the Jamboree not only encourage participation in the arts but help foster a stronger sense of identity and pride in the region. Supporting local arts initiatives also strengthens social bonds and creates economic opportunities for vendors and artists alike, contributing to the vibrancy and resilience of the community. Further details will be announced as they become available.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to concerns about property protection programs tied to the Nuclear Waste Management Organization. Board members agreed to contact the NWMO and Ignace Town Council to request an open community meeting to support enhancing consultation and engagement. They aim to obtain clarification on the Neighbouring Property Protection (NPP) and Property Value Protection (PVP) programs. As the closest communities in proximity to the NWMO Adaptive Phased Management site chosen in November 2024, several residents have requested further information.
The Local Services Board of Melgund is also applying to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to be registered as a qualified donee, which would allow the Board to issue tax receipts for donations and receive support from charities. This designation is already held by several other Local Services Boards in Ontario, and it helps communities like ours raise funds for important local services such as recreation programs and waste management. Being able to accept charitable donations will support community events, facility improvements, and programs that benefit everyone in Dyment and Borups Corners. This step will strengthen the Board’s ability to serve the community now and in the future.
The next regular LSB meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22 at 7 p.m., shifted to accommodate the Easter holiday.
The meeting adjourned at 8:05 p.m.