Hi Debi and thank you for sharing your feedback regarding the proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre project. The FAQ you are referencing is “What were the key criteria for selecting the site adjacent to the Civic Centre?”

To provide some further context, the site evaluation process for the proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre involved a comprehensive, evidence-based review by an independent sports marketing consultant. As part of that process, a facilitated workshop with City Council identified and ranked the criteria that guided the evaluation from alignment with Council priorities, to feasibility, to economic and community-building potential. You can review the full presentation from KKR Advisors in the presentation in the Council Presentations of the Documents section on this page: https://letstalkbrantford.ca/sec.

Locating the proposed facility in the downtown was a deliberate recommendation as it supports Council’s broader downtown revitalization strategy, with the intention of creating a strong anchor destination that attracts more people to the city’s core, generates new foot traffic for local businesses, and helps strengthen the downtown as a vibrant community hub.

We understand that residents may have different perspectives on how municipal tax dollars should be invested, and we respect all opinions. It is also important to note that the City has a responsibility to balance multiple priorities that contribute to overall community well-being. The proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre represents a long-term investment in quality of life and, if approved, will be funded through dedicated capital budgets linked to development in the downtown that cannot be redirected to other programs or projects.

Through this engagement process, Council is actively seeking input from all residents before making a final decision on whether to proceed. We encourage you to share your views through the survey if you haven’t already done so, so they can be included in the report for Council’s consideration.

Hi and thanks for your question. Earl Haig Family Fun Park is not affected by the proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre.

Hi Geoff and thanks for your question. The proposal plans for seating for 5,300. The seating capacity could increase for concerts when the ice rink pad would be used for floor seating.

Hi Meredith and thank you for sharing your perspective. We understand that residents have different views about how municipal tax dollars should be invested, and we respect all opinions. You are correct that many of the complex issues facing our community, such as health care, addiction, and housing affordability, are primarily the responsibility of provincial and federal governments. At the municipal level, the City works very closely with these partners to advocate for additional resources and to support local agencies delivering these critical services. We recognize the need for many is urgent and work to advocate to other levels of government on behalf of our community at every opportunity. 

The proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre is just one of many priorities identified by Council, alongside essential services including affordable housing, City infrastructure improvements, family and income stability supports and more. Exploring this project does not reduce the City’s commitment to those core services; rather, it is part of a balanced approach to investing in the City’s overall well-being long-term. Recreation facilities provide safe spaces for physical activity, social connection, and community programming, which all play a role in prevention and supporting healthy lifestyles. The proposed SEC is a long-term investment in our community’s quality of life and if approved will be funded from dedicated capital budgets that cannot be redirected to provincial healthcare programs.

Through this current engagement process, Council is seeking input from all residents before making any final decision on whether to proceed. We encourage you to share your feedback through the survey if you haven’t already done so, so your views are included in the report for Council’s consideration.

Hi Vanessa and thank you for raising this important concern. We share your recognition that the opioid crisis, particularly the impact of fentanyl, is a serious challenge in communities across the country, and understand the urgent need for more mental health and addiction supports in our community. It is important to clarify that healthcare, including mental health and addictions treatment, is the responsibility of the Province of Ontario. The City does not have a mandate or funding authority to provide these services directly. That said, we continue to advocate strongly to the Province for increased supports, resources, and treatment options to help those struggling with addiction in our community. 

Please know that the City remains deeply committed to supporting our local healthcare partners in their efforts to save lives and provide help to those struggling with addiction. While the City actively supports local agencies that specialize in harm reduction, mental health services, and addiction treatment, Grand Erie Public Health and SOAR Community Services are the lead organizations that provide mental health and addiction support in our community. 

At the same time, the City has a responsibility to balance different priorities that contribute to overall community well-being. Recreation facilities provide safe spaces for physical activity, social connection, and community programming, which all play a role in prevention and supporting healthy lifestyles. The proposed SEC is a long-term investment in our community’s quality of life and if approved will be funded from dedicated capital budgets that cannot be redirected to provincial healthcare programs.

We understand that recreation facilities service a different purpose than treatment programs, but we believe they are an important part of building a strong, inclusive community, while we continue to push other levels of government to expand essential health services that are desperately needed.

Hi Thomas - thanks for your question and the opportunity to clarify. While the Brantford Bulldogs OHL team would be a confirmed tenant of the proposed Sports and Entertainment Centre, the proposed design is also meant to accommodate other sports including lacrosse and basketball. The centre is being designed to be multi-purpose, capable of hosting diverse sports tournaments, concerts, trade shows, cultural events, community celebrations, and more. The goal is to create a space that serves the community year-round.

Hi there and thanks so much for taking the time to share your thoughts. Your suggestion about including a restaurant will be added to the feedback we’re collecting for the Sports and Entertainment Centre project.