The Municipal District of Bonnyville has decided to continue providing the Dupre Community League with its annual $5,000 Community Association Operating Grant but decided not to take over the maintenance of the Dupre Community grounds after citing concerns about setting a precedent for other community associations facing similar challenges.
The Dupre Community League initially proposed forfeiting its grant in exchange for the M.D. taking over maintenance responsibilities for the grounds, estimating that this would cost the M.D. $10,760 annually. Parks and Recreation Manager Greg Sheppard clarifies that maintenance responsibilities for ball diamonds and grounds fall under the community associations’ jurisdiction.
The league cited difficulties in engaging the community and hiring maintenance staff, despite offering competitive wages. This issue reflects broader challenges faced by rural hall volunteers across the region, as noted by Esther Quiambao, the M.D.’s general manager of Planning and Community Services.
Quiambao expressed concern about the growing frustration among rural hall volunteers within the community, noting that their numbers are gradually declining. She highlighted the challenge for the council in finding ways to support rural communities and help them remain vibrant and sustainable.
Councillor Ben Fadeyiw acknowledged the declining volunteer participation despite high usage of the grounds, raising concerns that the league might have to shut down. However, he pointed to the Cherry Grove grounds as an example where the threat of closure spurred greater community engagement.
Reeve Barry Kalinski emphasized that maintenance is being carried out by just two families, commending their efforts as “first class.”
Deputy Reeve Darcy Skarsen noted the larger implications of taking over the grounds. “The only issue is that there’s five other community associations that have the same setup,” Skarsen said. “It’s a tough one for sure because if we say yes, we will have to be prepared to be doing this for all the grounds.”
Councillor Josh Crick supported maintaining the grant while emphasizing the importance of community associations taking responsibility for their operations. He pointed out that there are five other associations with similar assets, suggesting that some responsibility should lie with the community groups to manage them effectively.
Council approved the administration’s recommendation, leaving the $5,000 grant in place reiterating that maintenance responsibilities remain with the Dupre Community League.
