Many of you likely have questions about our new RecPlex, perhaps the FAQ's that have been gathered will provide you with the answers that you need...

Wasaga Beach RecPlex Community Centre

 "Make It Yours" Campaign

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS       

What is the Wasaga Beach RecPlex Community Centre?

The RecPlex project is a major expansion and renovation of the former Oakview Community Centre which had become outdated and inadequate for our growing community. When it's completed, the new, larger centre will be the focus of our community's recreational, social and cultural life; a multi-use facility that will attract and meet the needs of people of all ages.

There are three phases to the $9.5 million project:

Phase One:  the 18,795 square foot addition that was officially opened on July 1, 2004. It will be the premier indoor location for major community events, live theatre, trade shows and social gatherings
Phase Two:  total renovation, interior and exterior, of the original Oakview centre is now complete
Phase Three:  the much anticipated, aquatic and fitness complex with its four lane swimming pool, leisure and therapeutic pools, viewing areas, fitness area, meeting rooms and supervisory/administrative facilities is now open. 

What is the "Make It Yours" Campaign?

The local community is expected to provide substantial funds in addition to those committed by the federal, provincial and municipal governments. Our share is $2 million of the total of $9.5 million.  This is the objective of the campaign led by a group of enthusiastic and dedicated volunteers.

We've called it, "Make It Yours", because it gives members of the community the opportunity to donate and be prominently identified at the new Wasaga Beach RecPlex.

Is the RecPlex needed?

The rapid growth of Wasaga Beach and the increased number of interest groups that have emerged have underlined the inadequacies of the old Oakview Community Centre. The lack of an indoor aquatic facility and a suitable location for recreational, cultural and other programs was a concern residents expressed repeatedly. The limitations of the former centre have prevented expansion of programs that a community of our size should be able to provide for various segments of the population.

Who will the RecPlex serve?

The facilities, equipment and programs at the new centre are for the benefit of all residents of Wasaga Beach and neighbouring communities and will serve and be accessible to people and organizations regardless of age, ability and needs.

What are the benefits of the RecPlex?

The enlarged facility will provide more opportunity for development of local sports, recreational and cultural programs for people of all age groups.  It will feature two first class, multi-function halls for staging special events including business meetings, weddings, trade shows, community theatre and other entertainment. 

Development of the new RecPlex is further strengthening the sense of community in Wasaga Beach and the new facility is already emerging as a new centre for recreational, leisure and social life in our town. 

Tax dollars are already funding this project, why should I support the RecPlex?

Federal, provincial and municipal governments base their financial support for projects such as RecPlex on the enthusiasm and initiative demonstrated by the community benefiting from the project.  They have committed to fund a substantial portion of the RecPlex development costs and expect the community now will do its part by raising the remainder of the funds. 

Do I get a tax receipt?

Yes, Revenue Canada allows a tax credit for certain donations and this reduces the real costs of your donation to the campaign.  Consult your accountant or tax advisor. 

When it's completed, how will the operation of RecPlex be sustained?

The RecPlex operations will be as close to financially self-sustaining as possible.   Its mission will be to promote and market itself and generate revenues to help offset its operating costs and also to fulfill its responsibility to make the facility and its programs accessible to all of the community. 

Is the YMCA involved?

Yes, the YMCA is a major partner and is contributing $1 million for equipment, furnishings and signage. The "Y" will also be under contract with the Town of Wasaga Beach to operate and maintain the aquatic and fitness facility. Its demonstrated fiscal management in facilities such as this within Simcoe County will enhance financial sustainability targets the Town has set. It will also offer its traditional "Y" community programming in areas of swimming, fitness, basketball, etc. These programs are geared to respond to the needs of all segments of our population.

What happens if the campaign goal is not reached?

There is enthusiastic and widespread commitment for this initiative, to develop one of the most important resources in Wasaga Beach. We are confident that the community as a whole will join the Town and its Community Partners and do its part to ensure the campaign goal of $2 million is reached.

What is the cost of the project and what make makes up that amount?

Total cost for renovation and development in the three phases is $9 million.

Phase One - $2.1 million       Phase Two - $1.6 million       Phase Three - $5.8 million

                                                Total             -          $9.5 million

Who owns the RecPlex?

The Town of Wasaga Beach.

What funds are committed to the project so far?

A total of $7.5 million has been committed by the Federal Government, the Province, the Town of Wasaga Beach and our Community Partners (Wasaga Beach Lions Club, Wasaga Beach Rotary Club, Prime Time Club, Wasaga Community Theatre and 412 Club).  The Y has committed to contribute $1 million in equipment, furniture and signage for the new facility which is in addition to the $9.5 million total.

I want to do my part. How do I make a donation or pledge?

Letter of Intent (pledge) forms and tax receipts will be available through the Town's Economic Development Office (705-429-3844, X2285) at 30 Lewis Street.  Visit our website at www.wasagabeach.com for further info or email us at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .  

Make It Yours!