The play structure at Fifth & Frenette is over 30 years old and has reached the end of its intended lifespan. Providing, operating and maintaining play structures for public use is outside our core mandate. For safety and liability reasons, the District of Rainy River Services Board (DRRSB) must remove it.

The question of inspection is understandable. However, even with an inspection, the DRRSB would remain responsible and liable for the ongoing maintenance and safety of the structure. DRRSB does not provide or maintain similar play structures at any of its housing or child care sites for this very reason.

The property is not public park. It was purchased with the intent to address a critical need for affordable housing in the community. We recognize the importance of public parks and greenspace in neighbourhoods. We encourage residents to engage the Town of Fort Frances – the municipal body responsible for public parks and community greenspaces who may be open to discussions around community-led initiatives or partnerships to expand or further develop parks and greenspace on municipally-owned public land.

The DRRSB purchased the property with an intent to support housing development — which is within our mandate — and that intent continues.  There are no immediate construction plans although work continues to seek funding to support housing development to meet the critical and growing need for affordable housing in the community.

We acknowledge that the timing of the removal may have come as a surprise to some residents. Once a final decision was made, based on liability and safety advice, action had to be taken promptly to mitigate risk. We regret any distress caused and appreciate the care residents have shown for this space.

The DRRSB is responsible for delivering essential human services, including housing and homelessness prevention, child care, paramedic services, and social assistance across the Rainy River District. We are not a municipal government and do not operate public parks.

While DRRSB operates licensed early years programs and child care services in the building next to the playground, we have never used the playground equipment as part of these programs due in part to the liability and safety risks it presents. Licensed child care operators must meet strict provincial standards and are only permitted to use outdoor spaces that are fully fenced, regularly inspected, and meet current CSA safety requirements. The playground at Fifth & Frenette does not meet those standards and has never been part of the outdoor play environment used by the children in our care.

Residents are encouraged to contact the Town of Fort Frances, which manages municipal parks and public green spaces. They may be interested in exploring community-led solutions that support expanding family-friendly amenities in the east end.