Bayfield Community Groups Advocate For Proceeds From Lions Club Building Sale

by Bob Montgomery

The Bayfield Lions Club, Bayfield Ratepayers Association, and Bayfield Area Food Bank are inviting concerned citizens to show their support at the Bluewater municipality council meeting on January 13.

As the municipality has not received any further expressions of interest for the Lions Club building, the community groups believe council will approve a direct deal with a physician from Seaforth who plans to turn the building into a much-needed medical clinic. So, they're asking that some of the initial proceeds from the sale be used to help relocate the Bayfield Area Food Bank. They are also proposing that any remaining funds be reserved for future use within the village of Bayfield.

“We urge all residents to come out and support this important initiative,” said Don Schafheitlin, President of the Bayfield Taxpayers Association. “Your voice matters, and together we can ensure that the proceeds from the sale are used to benefit the entire community.”

Ian Matthew, President of the Bayfield Lions Club, stated: “The Lions wholly support the addition of a medical practice in Bayfield. This is the highest and best use of the property as correctly decided by the Municipality. Our concern is for the Bayfield Food Bank and its continued support of families in need. The building was also widely used by the community and we will assist all to meet their needs in the future. While we applaud the Council in their decision, we look to the Council for their support of the Bayfield Community. The proceeds of the sale represent that opportunity for Council.”

Council has stated their intention is to help relocate all of the organizations that used the building and particularly the food bank and there is room around the community to do that.

Residents are encouraged to attend the council meeting on January 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Varna Complex Council Chamber.