A “groundbreaking” purchase and sales agreement with a well-known dairy farm will soon mean more green space for Ingersoll residents.
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The town announced Thursday it had acquired 31.5 hectares (78 acres) of land from Grobrook Farms in what officials described as a “remarkable collaboration” and a “new chapter” in Ingersoll’s development. The acquisition of the land at the town’s southeast corner included a “generous donation” from Grobook, which officials said demonstrates the farm’s ongoing support for the local community and the preservation of green spaces.
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“In extending our heartfelt appreciation to the Grobrook Farms, we acknowledge their unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. Their generosity has set Ingersoll on a firm and stable path, ensuring the continuity of reliable services for our community,” Ingersoll Mayor Brian Petrie said in a release.
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Nick Groot, part owner of Grobrook Farms, said his company was “delighted to play a role” in expanding green spaces within Ingersoll.
“Our donation is a reflection of our commitment to sustainable development and the well-being of the residents. We look forward to seeing the positive impact these enhanced recreational areas will have on the community,” Groot said in the release.
A good chunk of the newly acquired property – at least 12 hectares (30 acres) – will be reserved for open space and recreational purposes to further enrich Ingersoll’s outdoor activities, officials said in the release. This expansion corresponds with the town’s long-term vision of creating accessible and inclusive spaces that cater to the diverse needs and interests of Ingersoll residents, officials said.
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The balance of the property will then be available for future consideration of use by the town,
As stipulated in the purchase agreement, Grobrook Farms will have the opportunity to provide input on the naming of any future recreational facilities.
Part of that discussion will involve the development of a new multi-use recreation center for the town. The financing of this development will be on town council’s Jan. 8 meeting agenda. This proposed facility, which was outlined in Ingersoll’s recently approved multi-year capital budget, is slated to begin construction in 2026. In the upcoming council report, staff has identified this newly purchased parcel of land as a possible site for the recreation center.
This new property, staff said, mirrors the advantages of the previously selected site but also offers a surplus of recreational space. This surplus, staff noted, could allow for the development of sports and other recreational fields alongside the new center.
Staff also noted the integration of this additional space would create “operational efficiencies” for Ingersoll’s recreation programs.
While green space and recreation were the focus of the acquisition and announcement, town officials also noted roughly five hectares (12 acres) could be available for future industrial development as well. This could mean future economic growth and job creation, town officials said.
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