10/14/2024

ASHLAND - The planned splash pad project spearheaded by the Ashland Rotary Club has hit a snag. The city has raised water rates and now operating the splash park could cost more than originally planned. The Rotary agreed to pay the city $2,000 a year to cover the cost of water and maintenance for the park. Now, members of the city council have expressed hesitation about moving forward, and Mayor Matthew MacKenzie has said the city could void the agreement with the Rotary. The project is expected to cost about $300K, most of which has been donated by the Vivian Family, who owned the Ashland Music Store. Continued fundraising has help cover most of the remaining costs, there’s only 10% left to raise and Rotary President Dale Kelm said despite the current uncertainty, he is adament that the splash pad will be built and it will celebrate all of Ashland.