Community groups are asking for the reversal of a decision affecting rentals at the Coverdale Recreation Centre.
A decision was made by the parks, recreation and facilities department in November last year to remove bar services from the centre.
A report was submitted to the town council by Director David Shea stating it would take effect on September 1.
Brian Maybee spoke to town councillors during a recent Committee of the Whole meeting on behalf of five organizations, the Riverview Kinsmen Club, The Albert County Hunters’ Association,
The Southeastern New Brunswick Snowmobilers Association and The Buckskinners Association.
He said the groups hold seven events annually at the centre, and making it alcohol free will have a negative effect.
“Our seven events support local businesses and would represent a loss of over $200,000 to the community, impacting the support of charitable causes, programs and events that support and foster a vibrant and active community,” Maybee said.
Shea says the initial decision was made after a three-year strategic review by the manager of community engagement.
“The first focus point of the decision was to address and close gaps in security risks and liability. The fact of the matter is that the town remains liable for alcohol events. There have been ongoing security challenges and smoking challenges on the property in violation of smoke-free places New Brunswick legislation as well from around the property itself, from the homeowners and service groups.”
He adds they also heard concerns about municipal staff running the bar being harassed.
“Although we appreciate the value the service groups and organizations provide, you can’t always control the membership who are attending or the behaviours of someone who might be under the influence,” Shea said.
Maybee stated he wasn’t aware of any issues surrounding events that the Kinsmen Club have held, but he couldn’t speak for other organizations.
The groups requested a meeting to speak further with Shea and also suggested that if the decision could not be fully reversed, it be postponed until early 2026 to allow groups an opportunity to hold their events in the fall and find alternatives for the new year.
