The Fonthill Lions Club is proud to announce a landmark agreement with the Town of Pelham that will ensure the long-term sustainability, accessibility and growth of G.L. Klager Park as a vital community hub.
Through this agreement, the Fonthill Lions Club will transfer ownership of the park to the Town of Pelham while continuing its long-standing role as a community builder and active presence within the facility. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to preserving and enhancing one of Pelham’s most valued recreational spaces for generations to come.
“For over 80 years the Fonthill Lions Club has been dedicated to serving our community and G.L. Klager Park has been central to that mission,” said Jane Carr, President of the Fonthill Lions Club. “This agreement ensures the park’s future while allowing us to continue doing what we do best, bringing people together and supporting our community.”
Under the agreement, the Fonthill Lions Club will continue to host events, meetings and community programming at the park while the Town of Pelham assumes responsibility for long-term maintenance, infrastructure and future improvements. This collaborative model preserves the Club’s legacy while strengthening the park’s future.
“This agreement represents a true legacy gift to the residents of Pelham both for today and for generations to come,” said Marvin Junkin, Mayor of the Town of Pelham. “It is a forward-thinking commitment that ensures long term access to parkland and recreational facilities while reflecting the Lions’ enduring dedication to their mission and their motto, ‘We Serve.’ This partnership showcases the very best of our community spirit. I couldn’t be more proud.”
Importantly, the lands will remain dedicated to public recreational use in perpetuity, ensuring that G.L. Klager Park continues to serve as a community asset for generations.
This partnership represents a stronger future for the community and delivers meaningful benefits for both the Fonthill Lions Club and the residents of Pelham:
- Long-term sustainability: The transition ensures the park is supported by municipal resources for maintenance, upgrades and future development.
- Enhanced community amenities: The Town will be able to invest in improvements such as accessibility upgrades and expanded recreational features over time.
- Continued Lions leadership: The Fonthill Lions Club will remain actively involved, continuing its tradition of hosting events, supporting local initiatives and fostering community spirit.
- Preservation of legacy: The park will retain its name, G.L. Klager Park, honouring its history and the Fonthill Lions Club’s decades of service.
“This is a positive and collaborative solution that benefits everyone,” added Jane Carr. “By working together with the Town of Pelham we are protecting a cherished community space while creating new opportunities for growth, accessibility and enjoyment for all.”
The Fonthill Lions Club recognizes the importance of transparency in matters involving public assets. Key elements of the agreement reflect a responsible and community-focused approach that balances long-term stewardship with continued local benefit while respecting the detailed terms negotiated between the parties.
The Fonthill Lions Club remains deeply committed to its mission of service and community engagement. With this new partnership in place residents can look forward to continued programming, enhanced facilities and a vibrant gathering place that reflects the spirit of Pelham.
Further updates will be shared as the partnership progresses.
About the Fonthill Lions Club
The Fonthill Lions Club is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to serving the Pelham community through fundraising, events and local initiatives. With over 80 years of service the Club plays an integral role in enhancing quality of life across the region.