Council Supports Ag Science Centre Project

North Perth Council recently confirmed support for the efforts of a local group to bring an Ag Science Centre to the community. A feasibility study, funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, recommended a change from a Children’s Museum focus, to an Ag Science Centre following a detailed market analysis and interviews with local and regional stakeholders. Ag Science Centres are more feasible as they attract all age groups and repeat visits. The focus on Agriculture and Science aligns with economic priorities for the region.

The committee sought conditional approval from Council for a donation of land and future operational expenses for the Science Centre to provide a solid launching point for a capital campaign to other levels of government, organizations and private donors. While strongly endorsing the project concept and potential tourism and economic impact for the area, Council focussed support upon a gift of property for the proposed building following a successful capital campaign. Council stated they were unable to hold a future council to an ongoing operational expense during a difficult fiscal time with so many other critical competing priorities.   

The study confirms feasibility of a regional Ag Science Centre with an earliest opening in 2024 if property was donated and facility operational expenses were guaranteed and a total project cost of 13.8 million dollars. Location of the property has not been specified.  Funding for the capital project will be sought from county, provincial and federal levels of government, agriculture and interested organizations plus private donors committed to the project objectives and impact on the regional economy.

View the Huron Perth Ag Science Centre Feasibility Study Final Report on the North Perth website.

For more information, please contact:

Kim Kowch, Community Development Coordinator
Municipality of North Perth
519-292-2043
kkowch@northperth.ca

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