Budget Spotlights 2026 #7: Recreation and Culture, Community and Economic Development

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RECREATION AND CULTURE

The Mississippi Mills Recreation and Culture Department is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all residents by fostering vibrant, inclusive and active communities. The department plays a vital role in:

Maintaining and enhancing over 20 parks across the Municipality, offering green spaces for relaxation and recreation
Organizing a wide range of sports and leisure programs for seniors, adults, and youth to promote health and community engagement
Managing key recreational and cultural facilities, including community centres, baseball diamonds, soccer fields, splash pads, skate parks, playgrounds, and the historic Almonte Old Town Hall
Coordinating signature community events such as Canada Day celebrations, Light Up the Night, and the Santa Claus parades
Supporting local organizations through promotional assistance, equipment lending, and strategic guidance
Overseeing tourism initiatives that showcase the charm and attractions of Mississippi Mills

2026 PROPOSED CAPITAL PROJECTS – RECREATION AND CULTURE

Proposed capital projects (subject to change) in the draft 2026 budget for Recreation and Culture, include:

$55,000 – Roof improvements at the John Levi Community Centre
$50,000 – Online booking system for hall rentals and ice bookings
$50,000 – New tractor for Pakenham
$20,000 – Mulch/retaining wall work at Appleton Bay Park
$30,000 – Upgrades to Five Span Park in Pakenham
$15,000 – Upgrades to the Almonte Dog Park
$10,000 – Accessibility upgrades at the John Levi Community Centre

COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

The Community and Economic Development Department collaborates closely with Recreation and Culture to shape Mississippi Mills into a vibrant, welcoming and prosperous community – an ideal place to live, work, and play.

Its mission is to foster economic vitality through strategic programs, policies, and initiatives that strengthen the social and economic fabric of the Municipality. Key responsibilities include:

Cultivating a strong sense of place that reflects the character and spirit of Mississippi Mills
Planning and supporting community events that bring people together and celebrate local culture
Championing diversity and inclusion to ensure all residents feel valued and represented
Promoting tourism to showcase the area’s unique attractions and experiences
Facilitating community development through partnerships and grassroots engagement
Advancing sustainability in local initiatives and long-term planning
Attracting new investment to stimulate growth and innovation
Implementing business retention strategies to support existing enterprises
Encouraging entrepreneurship and job creation to build a resilient local economy

2026 PROPOSED CAPITAL PROJECTS – COMMUNITY AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Proposed capital projects (subject to change) in the draft 2026 budget for Community and Economic Development, include:

$20,000 – Ramp for Gemmill Park stage (grant funding)
$15,000 – Improvements to service club entrance signs
$5,000 – Event equipment

For more information on Community and Economic Development:

Helping Your Business Succeed – www.mississippimills.ca/business/
Community Events – www.mississippimills.ca/events/
Mississippi Mills Community Profile – www.mississippimills.ca/build-and-invest/community-profile/

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MUNICIPAL OFFICE
3131 Old Perth Rd
Box 400
Almonte ON, K0A 1A0

Email: Town@mississippimills.ca
Phone: 613-256-2064

HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. except on Statutory Holidays