The Nutrien Civic Centre in Sussex is closing its doors. Executive Director Stephanie McFarlane announced the sudden closure to staff and the public on Thursday. She stated she cannot make payroll for her 40 employees.

Financial Shortfalls Force Shutdown

The facility relies on memberships for over half of its revenue. The Kings Regional Service Commission provides the remaining funds. This commission manages financial contributions from the Town of Sussex, Butternut Valley, Valley Waters, and the District of Kings.

McFarlane expects $150,000 four times a year to keep the facility running. The centre received the first payment in full. The second quarter fell short by over $13,000. In July, the centre received only $25,000 for the third quarter.

“I would never ask 40 people to volunteer their time,” McFarlane told CTV News Atlantic.

Municipalities Clash Over Funding

Sussex Mayor Marc Thorne blames neighboring communities for the financial crisis. He says Butternut Valley and Valley Waters failed to meet their financial commitments for shared recreational services.

Butternut Valley Mayor Alan Brown denies this claim. He states his municipality pays its mandated share. Brown notes the commission recently switched from quarterly to monthly billing. He suggests this administrative change caught the civic centre off guard.

Valley Waters Mayor Randy McKnight points to low demand and high costs. He says user fees fail to cover operating expenses and the facility runs significant losses every year. McKnight believes the closure is the correct and reasonable course of action.

Impact on Local Residents

The closure impacts many residents who rely on the facility for health and wellness. Ivan Graham uses the walking track daily to manage his Parkinson’s disease. He calls the facility essential for his survival during extreme weather conditions.

While the main facility closes to members on Saturday, a few programs will continue temporarily. The daycare remains open through August. Volunteers will run specific aquatic leadership courses and swimming lessons. McFarlane also confirmed the summer day camp will finish its season.

The community now faces a future without its primary recreation hub. McFarlane stresses the need for a long term sustainable plan that avoids constantly asking municipalities for more money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Nutrien Civic Centre close?

The facility closed because it experienced a severe funding shortfall and could no longer make payroll for its 40 employees.

Will any services remain open at the centre?

Yes. The daycare remains open through August. The summer day camp will finish its season and volunteers will run a few specific aquatic courses.

Who funds the civic centre?

Memberships cover over 50 percent of the operating costs. The Kings Regional Service Commission provides the rest using funds from Sussex, Butternut Valley, Valley Waters, and the District of Kings.