Mayor Detorakis of St. George Proposes Controversial Community Centre Renovations

St. George Mayor John Detorakis is hoping to transform the town's community centre by adding on a library, fitness centre and indoor walking track. Mayor Detorakis says the town's current library on the second floor of town hall isn't easily accessible to those with mobility issues and could use a modern upgrade.

"Our community needs a library that is accessible to all ages, a place to check out a book, read the newspaper and access high-speed internet, if they can't afford it," said Detorakis. 

Detorakis suggested the town apply for $1 million in funding for the project from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency's community revitalization fund meant to inject new life into communities after the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Despite Detorakis' hopeful plans for the new community centre, his vision didn't gain a lot of support at the town council meeting. Most councillors were against the idea, as were many town residents in attendance that night. 

Councillor Leslie Armstrong said council needs to consult with the community before rushing into grant proposals for projects. 

"We need to see what the true need of the community really is," said Armstrong. "Maybe it's a library and a walking track, maybe it's not."

Many townspeople spoke out about their desire not to build an addition onto the community centre, which would ultimately require building onto the neighbouring field--a field that is dedicated to veterans.

Councillor Alexa Detorakis, who was originally in favour of the project and also happens to be the daughter of the mayor, said the concerns of locals and her fellow councillors changed her mind about the project and she voted with the other councillors in favour of not pursuing it further.