Huntsville councillors agree to include funds for security services at the Canada Summit Centre in 2024 budget

A semblance of order has been restored at the Canada Summit Centre thanks to the addition of a security expert, say municipal staff.

Greg Pilling, Huntsville Manager of Facility Operations, Sales and Customer Service told Huntsville’s General Committee on July 26 that since council made a decision to hire a security expert at the Summit Centre last February for $72,000, there has been a marked improvement at the facility with respect to vandalism, fights and intimidation of patrons and staff.

Pilling’s requested that funds be set aside in the Town’s 2024 budget and into the future for the service. He noted that the OPP were pleased with the outcome as well as municipal staff and patrons of the Canada Summit Centre.

Pilling noted in his report to council that since the incorporation of a security guard at the Canada Summit Center the following has occurred:
“• There have not been any incidents or vandalism
• Increased staff time to attend to regular duties resulting in a cleaner and improved facility as
staff are not dealing with issues related to the students
• Many compliments from patrons noting how improved the building is and how much safer they
felt and thanking the town for addressing these issues
• Staff moral has dramatically improved as staff no longer have to be verbally abused and feel
safe in their workplace.
• The building is under the care and control of staff and patrons noticed and appreciated the
improvement.
• There is a very different feel and vibe in the building that was much more indicative of what the
building should be and the intent of the Respecting Municipal Buildings/Property Rights of
Access & Use policy.”

“I like the idea of the fact that the atmosphere at the Canada Summit Centre now is a little bit less volatile and staff, as well as students and visitors feel more comfortable,” said Councillor Helena Renwick who confirmed that the cost would be the same or close to last year’s.

Committee approved the request.

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