Feature Article June 26,2003
LAND O' LAKES NewsWeb HomeOmpah Snowmobile Club has One Last ChanceThe Ompah Snowmobilers Club held its meeting on June 21 to determine the fate of the clubhouse and property, but did not receive the support that was hoped for.
It was the general consensus from the 15 people attending (11 supporters, 3 executive & 1 chairperson), that the meeting was well publicized but that the community does not comprehend the effects that selling the Clubhouse and grounds will have on the area.
A few items that may be of concern to the population of the Ompah area and the bureaucrats (that did not see it necessary to attend) need to be addressed. The major one is the possible loss of the Air Ambulance Heliport. The Heliport was built by the Snowmobile Club members on Club property and could end up being lost if the property is sold. The township only maintains the Heliport and does not own the land, so if a new landowner does not want it, it would become a burden on the township to rebuild it elsewhere.
Also, it was noted that the property and the Clubhouse is there for everyone to utilize for such events as a kids fun fair or a family gathering (reunion) or whatever -(for a small fee)- and is not being used to the fullest of its potential. A vacant unused property can only be a burden on the people responsible for it and this financial burden could mean the loss of the property.
Another date of July 19 at 7pm has been set for a final meeting and we ask any person, be it a member or a councillor or just a concerned person from the community, to attend, as this will be the last and final meeting and a decision will be handed down at the close of the meeting to keep or sell the property.
It is also the consensus of the board members that with the lack of support from the last meeting and the fact that on average eight persons attend our meetings and support the club, we do not require such an elaborate meeting place, so I challenge you to come with your ideas to change our minds on this matter.
Another point of concern is the fact that with the lack of support from both its members and the community, the club may not be able to meet its obligation for trail maintenance and preparation this fall. The club may be forced to close all trails for this season, with continued closure should support not come back. This would mean that all trails within the Ompah system would still be insured for the landowner, but would not be groomed or maintained. Ninety-nine% of all trails lead to businesses, and this would surely be a large economic blow to them, (the E trail across the top would remain open but anything south of Quackenbush and Calabogie would be unmaintained and closed) .
This matter is one that could effect every person in the area and should not be taken lightly. Something that was built by the community, for the community, needs the support of the community, because once it is lost it will be gone forever.
Please attend the July 19 meeting. Without your volunteer input and support we will not be able to continue.
Neil Bennett, President, Ompah Snowmobilers Club
