Co-Builds Possible for Zorra Township

Tuesday, 7 November 2023 at 10:49

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by Zorra Township and Thames Valley District School Board. This gives both parties the opportunity to come together and build or renovate buildings, which would benefit students, families, and the community.

ZORRA TOWNSHIP - The Township of Zorra and the Thames Valley District School Board have come together.

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed by the two sides, which means they can explore future co-build opportunities.

Co-build opportunities have local governments, school boards, and community organizations working together to build or renovate facilities that meet the needs of students, families, and the greater community.

In a release, Thames Valley District School Board Chair, Lori-Ann Pizzolato says, "Thames Valley District School Board Trustees are committed to addressing the unprecedented growth happening throughout our district. We are always looking for collaboration opportunities for new school builds and additions, so that we can create safe and inclusive learning environments for students. We appreciate Zorra Township’s continued support and are excited about future opportunities to work together. We will continue to work with all our valued partners to build a brighter future, not just for students, but also, for the communities they call home."

In the same release Zorra Township Mayor, Marcus Ryan mentions, "Whether it’s libraries, recreation spaces, or schools, we need to maximize the community use of the facilities our communities pay for. Where there are institutional barriers to that, it is our job to break them down and ensure effective and efficient use of tax dollars to maximize the services our residents use. Our children don’t care if the municipality or school board owns the soccer field. Their parents paid for it either way. I believe this model has the potential to be transformational for our communities."

The Township of Zorra said it would consult with Thames Valley about building a new multi-use arena and/or community centre, and Thames Valley agreed to consult the Township regarding renovations to area schools, which include Zorra Highland Park Public School or AJ Baker Public School, or if the construction of a new school in the area is the better option.