At its regular meeting on March 10, Northern Sunrise County council decided to adjust its operations budget to ensure a playground structure in St. Isidore is built this year.
The initial plan from the County was to allocate money from both the 2026 and 2027 budgets to build the structure, but to ensure the quoted price could be maintained, council altered its decision.
“Council decided to shift the funding to this year so the project can move ahead sooner rather than later and being able to maintain 2025 pricing for the playground equipment,” says deputy reeve Jason Javos.
“The existing playground in St. Isidore has been around for quite a while, and some of its pieces no longer meet today’s safety standards. Council felt it was time to give families a safe, modern space to enjoy, something that benefits both the hamlet and the wider community.”
Parc de St. Isidore was scheduled to be built next year, but when the installer said the prices could not be guaranteed due to ever-increasing commodity prices, the County decided to move $135,000 from 2027’s capital budget into the 2026 fiscal year.
“Outdoor spaces are an important part of community life,” says Javos. “St. Isidore is home to many young families, and having a good-quality playground gives them a gathering place close to home. Council wanted to support that.”
The County is contributing roughly $214,000 toward the new playground. Javos says the hope is the Playground Committee will continue fundraising to add extras like seating or other outdoor features.
“The new structure will be set up in front of the parking lot at the St. Isidore Cultural Centre,” he says.
“A safe, modern playground brings families together, encourages outdoor play, and helps make the hamlet an even more welcoming place to live and visit,” he adds.
The new playground is expected to be installed, if all goes well, by end of 2026.
Emily Plihal
Local Journalism
Initiative Reporter