Cold Lake city council has agreed to support a new inflatable water park proposed for Kinosoo Beach in 2025, and voted to issue a Letter of Understanding that would allow Cold Lake Splash Park Inc. to use a section of municipal land at no cost, pending several conditions.
The floating park would be located on the east side of the beach, outside the public swim area, and is expected to feature slides, obstacle courses, and walkways designed for participants aged six and up. Co-founders Harrison Fallow and Courtney Rande say the main structure could accommodate up to 150 people at once, with future plans to add a toddler-friendly zone.
The city can only grant permission over its beach property, not the water itself because it falls under the M.D. of Bonnyville. Administration clarified that the city does not have a problem with the water-based portion of the park.
Council brought up liability and practical issues. Councillor Chris Vining raised concerns about the city’s liability if someone were to get hurt using the structure at night, and whether the other party’s insurance would cover any damage if it broke loose and damaged city property.
CAO Kevin Nagoya addressed these concerns stating, “There’s going to be an obligation for this vendor to have an insurance because they’re going to be on city of Cold Lake owned property.” He also added that the inflated would be screw piles in and designed for heavy winds.
Council was reassured about safety and security, as it was mentioned during the presentation that monitoring will be in place and organizers are aware some people may want to go for a run in the middle of the night. “They did mention that they would get security because they understand people may want to utilize it after hours, and it could pose a liability for themselves as well,” said councillor Vicky Lefebvre.
The company plans to operate from mid-June to Labour Day, charge $28 per person and offer local discounts.
Council made a motion to accept the presentation as information and asked Administration to provide a Letter of Understanding. The letter includes conditions around required permits, insurance, approvals, no city services or exclusivity, and gives the city the right to revoke at any time.
