When the summer sun is out, Gillies Lake becomes a hotbed of activity in Timmins. Joggers, cyclists, dog walkers, nature lovers, chili enthusiasts and wake boarders are a familiar sight.
A new addition to the area will now provide citizens the opportunity to explore Gillies Lake at their own leisurely pace on a non-motorized watercraft.
Jenica Butler is the founder of Boardwalk Rentals.
She explains her motivation behind the project that she has been working on since March.
“I live in the area. I love this area. I want to try and develop it as much as possible, and get as many things going for the kids as possible. I want to be out in the summer enjoying it as much as possible. It’s about creating more for everybody in Timmins and I know it’s something that people want,” she said.
Available for rentals will be:
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Three four-person pedal boats
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Three sit-on-top kayaks, one youth kayak to be rented in a family package.
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Two stand-up paddle boards
All safety equipment, including life jackets will be provided with rental.
The site, on the north side of Gillies Lake near the beach off Lakeshore Road, will not include a permanent structure and will be removed completely in September.
“All of my neighbours are more than on board with it. There may be a few people that aren’t aware of it because they may not be on Facebook. I have had nothing but positive response from everybody at this point,” says Butler.
She recognized the efforts of Johny and Justin Bonney, of Timmins Wake Park, who underwent intense scrutiny by city council and the public over the last few years before having their project approved.
“They broke the ground. There’s not much that they left to argue, I thank them very much.”
The proposal was discussed during Monday’s city council meeting, where the majority of councillors were receptive to the idea.
“Gillies Lake is one of the most used areas in this city, it’s one of our real jewels, and anything that will add to that area will make it more attractive for everyone,” said Councillor Rick Dubeau.
“I think it’s a great idea. It’s really a low-impact. We’re not talking about anything motorized. I think we should move ahead on this,” said Councillor Pat Bamford.
Councillor Noella Rinaldo suggested that the city allow a one-year trial period before any further commitment.
Director of Community Development and Services Mark Jensen told council that the city owns the land around Gillies Lake Beach where Boardwalk Rentals will be set up.
The Mattagami Region Conservation Authority (MRCA) owns the rest of the perimeter of the lake.
Jensen said the MRCA were supportive of the proposal as well.
Instead of the standard five-year lease, council voted to approve the project for two years, with a review after the first year.
A one hour rental is $13, $18 for 2 hours and $25 for 4 hours. Family packages are being finalized and will be posted on Boardwalk Rentals Facebook page.
Butler plans on being open for business as soon as Tuesday.
(PHOTO: Jenica Butler is pictured at Gillies Lake where her new business will offer non-motorized watercraft rentals. Andrew Autio for TimminsToday)