On Monday, March 23, North Glengarry Council unanimously approved moving forward with a partnership with the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) to support the resurfacing of tennis courts at Glengarry District High School (GDHS).

Council approved a $10,000 contribution from the Alexandria Recreation Association’s 2026 capital budget and directed Township staff to begin drafting a formal agreement with the UCDSB outlining shared use of the courts.

North Glengarry Director of Community Services Stephanie MacRae said the request arises from limited access to playable tennis courts in Alexandria, where deteriorating conditions at Island Park have reduced availability in recent seasons.

“The courts at the GDHS were installed back in 1970, with the intention that they would be used as community courts and open to the public,” MacRae said.

The GDHS site includes four courts, with surfaces now in need of resurfacing to address cracks, deterioration, and faded line markings.

Under the proposed agreement, community members would be permitted to use the courts outside of school hours. Weekday access would begin after 3 p.m. to allow for student dismissal, with use extending until dusk due to the absence of lighting. Weekend and summer access would be available from dawn until dusk.

The agreement outlines responsibilities for maintenance, parking, and liability. The UCDSB would cover minor repairs, such as netting replacement, while larger capital costs would be shared. The Township would assume liability for community use outside of school hours, while the school board would maintain responsibility during school use.

Parking would be available on site, with some restrictions depending on time of day and season, though access to the courts would remain available on foot.

Mayor Jamie MacDonald asked whether one of the courts would be retrofitted for pickleball. MacRae responded, “There is a commitment that one of the courts would be lined effectively to accommodate pickleball as well.”

Deputy Mayor Carma Williams said, “It’s very refreshing that the school board is coming on board for this partnership. It really indicates that they want to be involved in these community projects, and I think this is a wonderful partnership.”

The Township’s contribution, along with a private donation, represents approximately 30 per cent of the total estimated project cost. The UCDSB would be responsible for securing the remaining funding required to proceed.

If funding is confirmed and an agreement finalized, the project is tentatively scheduled for completion in summer 2026.

Council’s approval allows staff to proceed with drafting the agreement, which will return to Council for final approval at a later date.