Ryerson Park Name Change, Turf Deal & Concession Plans Advance Through Community Services Committee
Owen Sound’s Community Services Committee recommends renaming Ryerson Park, partnering with lacrosse groups on a turf floor, and issuing a new RFP for the Rec Centre concession.
Owen Sound’s Community Services Committee held its final meeting of the year on December 17, recommending several actions related to park naming, recreation partnerships, and facility operations.
Here’s what residents need to know.
Committee Recommends Renaming Ryerson Park
The committee is recommending that City Council proceed with renaming Ryerson Park, following a review by a Council-appointed working group.
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The group found that the park’s name originated from its location near the former Ryerson Public School, not as an honour to Egerton Ryerson. However, based on policy, historical review, and community input — including an informal petition and emails from nearby residents — the working group recommended renaming the park.
The committee agreed, and is recommending that Council:
Approve the renaming
Proceed under the City’s naming policy (CS-087)
Prioritize a location-based name
Install a plaque or marker explaining the park’s history and former names
Dissolve the working group, which has completed its mandate
If Council agrees, staff will begin the public naming phase in early 2026.
Commemorative Tree Approved for Rec Centre Grounds
The committee supported a request to plant a commemorative oak tree in memory of John Douglas Seaman, a community leader involved in the Better Pool Committee and the development of the city’s competitive pool.
The tree will be planted along the south side of the Julie McArthur Regional Recreation Centre. The requester, Al Nightingale, will cover the cost of the tree and plaque, which will be installed by City staff.
The YMCA has confirmed its support for the memorial, and the tree will be included in the City’s commemorative tree mapping system.
Sports Equipment Sanitizer Machine Approved for Lobby Space
The committee endorsed a three-year lease agreement for a sports equipment sanitizing vending machine at the Rec Centre. The machine will clean gear using ultraviolet light and be installed in an unused vending location near the main entrance.
The lease fee is $750 annually, with all maintenance and servicing handled by the proponent. Staff noted that this is a low-risk, low-cost opportunity to offer a new service in a facility that lacks a pro shop.
Concession RFP Will Prioritize Community-Based Operators
The Rec Centre’s concession remains vacant, and the committee is recommending that Council issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a new operator. The motion included an amendment to award extra points to non-profits or social enterprises, especially those based locally or working collaboratively.
The space has drawn interest from several potential operators. The lease would include access to operate on-site vending machines, and applicants must comply with facility restrictions, including healthy food options and no deep-frying.
Turf Partnership with Lacrosse Groups Moves Ahead
The committee is recommending that Council approve an agreement with Owen Sound Minor and Junior B Lacrosse to co-fund a portable turf floor for the Bayshore Community Centre.
The proposal involves the purchase and installation of a used turf surface, to be used during the summer and stored on-site.
The City would contribute up to $25,000, with the turf becoming a City asset. Lacrosse would cover the remaining cost through fundraising and a grant from the Tourism Development Fund, which was confirmed earlier in the day.
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The committee also directed staff to promote the project as a donation opportunity through the City’s CanadaHelps platform, allowing residents and supporters to contribute directly.
Other Notes
A scheduled presentation from the Owen Sound Chamber of Commerce regarding the Tourism Development Fund was deferred to January.
The committee received an update on building activity, including over 11 apartment buildings currently under construction or approved, and building permit revenue exceeding $1 million in 2025.
There were no public comments submitted and no postponed motions.
Full minutes and reports are available on the City of Owen Sound website.