Your Voice, Your Fairgrounds, conversation about the future of Port Perry Fairgrounds launched by the Township of Scugog in October, has so far managed to get 780+ responses.
Meanwhile, as of last night, a longer-running community petition by activists to Protect Port Perry Fairgrounds had garnered 3,623 signatures verified by Change.org that helps confirm that signatures are from real people.
The fairgrounds have until now been run by Port Perry Agricultural Society. However, the township has selected Darwin Logic to conduct the Port Perry Fairgrounds visioning exercise.
Residents opposing the move have set up a community petition calling on Scugog Council to protect the fairgrounds for continued use of community events – now and for the future, and to keep these public lands public and not sell them for private development.
Community Engagement Results
Releasing the results of its own community engagement, the township thanked community members who participated. It said so far to date, the project has received strong early participation, including:
- 300+ written comments shared at Community Pop-Ins
- 70 comments submitted through the online Ideas Tool
- 10+ comments received through email
- 400+ survey responses submitted through the online survey so far
“The township and project team have also gathered perspectives, values, and ideas through additional outreach including conversations with the seniors’ club and engagement with local schools. Outreach to Port Perry High School students is planned as part of the broader engagement process,” said the township statement.
It said the online survey remains open until January 26. Local citizens are encouraged to participate to help inform the community vision for the future of the Port Perry Fairgrounds.
No Decision or Plans Made Yet
“As we settle into the winter months, I encourage everyone to keep participating so we can maintain the strong momentum we have built together. No decision or plan for the fairgrounds has been made. I encourage residents to continue participating in consultation opportunities to share their ideas. Thank you to all those who have submitted their ideas so far.” said Mayor Wilma Wotten.
The Township of Scugog stated that they want to keep “the conversation going, and we remain committed to the community that municipal consultation at large will be transparent, open, and fair.” All opinions expressed will be considered and an interim report. The methodology of the work, as well as the emerging themes, will be coming to council in March 2026, the statement added.