The Vollmer Cultural and Recreation Complex in LaSalle is moving forward with a major expansion proposal, despite pushback from some residents who question the project's scope, timing, and financial implications.
Council Approves Next Steps
On April 28, town council voted to proceed with public consultation and detailed design work for the expansion, which could cost between $33 million and $40 million. The decision positions the project for future funding but does not commit to construction at this stage.
The town is committing approximately $250,000 from the Vollmer reserve to fund the consultation and design phase. The long-term plan envisions significant upgrades to the main recreation facility, including a double gymnasium, new changerooms, expanded lifeguard and staff areas, a dedicated aerobics and fitness studio, a larger gym floor, and an extended indoor walking track.
Mayor Defends Investment
LaSalle Mayor Crystal Meloche defended the decision, emphasizing the need for forward planning. “I think it would be very irresponsible for us not to take this step now and invest that $250,000 to make a plan for the future,” she said.
The proposal also includes the potential for a new 4,000 to 5,000-square-foot senior centre at the site, though this component has not yet been incorporated into the current conceptual design. A report to council noted that the existing senior centre at the Town Hall Civic Centre, about 3,800 square feet, is already stretched thin. Relocating it could improve programming and free up administrative space at town hall.
Meloche added that the consultation phase is crucial for preparing a stronger application for provincial infrastructure funding. The town’s 2025 bid for a sport and recreation grant was rejected, with the province advising that shovel-ready projects are more competitive. Since then, funding opportunities have expanded.
Growth Pressures Cited
Meloche highlighted that the municipality is trying to anticipate growth pressures as the community expands. “We are already at capacity and not able to offer any recreation facilities to anyone new coming to the municipality,” she said. “A big part of our job is to make sure we are planning for the future.”
A staff report clarified that no approval is being sought to spend construction funds at this time. A future report would return to council if the project advances to tender.
Resident Concerns
However, some residents are questioning whether the expansion is the right priority. LaSalle resident Jason Belanger said he supports recreation investment but believes the town should focus on existing infrastructure first. “Our soccer fields don’t have irrigation, our baseball fields don’t have water, and there are no lights,” he said. “Why wouldn’t you take care of those smaller things first?”
Belanger also raised concerns about cost and consultation, suggesting that residents are not being fully heard. “I don’t think the town’s listening to people,” he said. “These consultations are not polling people. It feels like an echo chamber.”
He pointed to the projected cost range and uncertainty around funding. “If it’s $40 million and the grant cap is about $10 million, where is the rest coming from?” he said. “We just took out debt on the waterfront. I think we need to slow down.”
A staff report is expected to be presented to the next term of council for officials to decide whether the project moves forward.
