The Elliot Lake XC Ski and Bike Club says the community's trails can potentially increase tourism and quality of life for Elliot Lakers.
But they need more work so the club brought a request for $20,000 to the in-person Budget 2025 input session hosted by the City at city hall last week.
The opportunity for local organizations' input is a new initiative announced the previous week.
Addressing city staff, council members, and citizens at the informal meeting, club secretary-treasurer, Karla Mills, explained the funding request is “to enhance trail development, signage, and educational opportunities through partnership with the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA).”
Mills, and club president, Jack Peterson, described “five key benefits.”
- Enhanced trail development. “Professional input from IMBA will enhance trails [and] ensure trails are sustainable, safe, and enjoyable for all skill levels.”
- Branding and promotion. “Well-marked trails can elevate Elliot Lake as a recognized destination for outdoor activities, increasing visibility, and attracting visitors.
- IMBA educational courses. “Skills development [and] training for club members on a trail building and maintenance will foster a knowledgeable and capable volunteer base.”
- Tourism benefits. “High-quality, well-maintained trails can draw tourists year-round for skiing, biking, and boosting local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and shops.
- Community health and well-being. “Increased access to trails promotes physical activity contributing to the overall health of the community members … trails provide space for social interactions, fostering community spirit through shared recreational activities.”
Mills and Peterson concluded, “investing in the Elliot Lake XC Ski and Bike Club is a strategic move that supports not only recreational enhancement, but also economic and community development.
“By approving this funding request, the city can significantly improve trail systems, promote tourism, and enrich the lives of its residents and visitors. We urge the City Council to consider this proposal for the 2025 budget to create a vibrant outdoor culture in Elliot Lake,” they said.
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