Sharing ideas on Maple Creek’s (recreational) future

Posted on August 27, 2026 by Ryan Dahlman

Marcus Day

Maple Creek News

On a warm late-summer evening, people gathered at Centennial Park to enjoy hotdogs, chips and drinks, and discuss the future of Maple Creek’s outdoor spaces.

The informal, often one-on-one, discussion focused on parks, recreation, facilities, and programs.

Present to engage with the public were Town councillors Len Barkman, Tina Cresswell, Corrine Collura, Betty Abbott, Mike Stork, and Holly Gutfruend.

Michelle McKenzie, the mayor, was also ready to chat, while serving hotdogs cooked by Barry Elliott, the Town’s chief administrative officer, underneath a canopy. Chuck Erman, the director of community services, attended too.

Three stands had been set up, with illustrated posters on recreation opportunities and programming (such as lawn bowling, disc golf and provincial tournaments), the future of parks and recreation facilities (playground upgrade concepts, inclusive playground concepts, and parks concepts) and park improvements already carried out, including waterslides, ball diamonds’ shale, sports field bleachers and washroom renovations.

Each stand had a stack of community survey forms, also available at the Town office.

Tuesday’s “Parks, Play & Progress” session, between 5pm and 7pm, had been organized by the Town as it seeks public input for developing Maple Creek.

Afterwards the Town thanked everyone who came out for the event.

“We appreciate everyone who took the time to share ideas, ask questions, and talk about the future of parks and recreation in our community. Your input matters – and the conversation doesn’t stop there.”