In a press release last week, the Town of Brome Lake stated it must award a waterfront lease for the lake in front of CLARKE Park.

Just over a year ago, the Town of Brome Lake acquired the 14 acre waterfront property now known as "CLARKE park." The acquisition of this land was supported by two foundations: The CLARKE Foundation and the Poulin Family. The land allows public access to the lake as well as a forested area spanning from the lake front up to Tibbits Hill.

CLARKE Park is only the third public access area to the lake along with Tiffany Beach and Douglas Beach. The remainder of the shoreline belongs to private residences.

After hearing the news about the lease, a citizen asked the Town about the intention behind the purchase and the need for a waterfront lease, suggesting that they understood the parcel of land would be used as another public access point to the lake.

“Every property owner including towns that have property on the shoreline, in this case Brome Lake, has to acquire what it is called a hydrological lease from the minister of the environment,” explained Owen Falquero, director of legal affairs for Brome Lake.

In short, the town is paying rent to the minister of the environment to acquire the water front for public use, he added.

“It was a miscommunication and unclear wording in the press release that made citizens believe the lease was for a private citizen,” elaborated Falquero.

This summer, there will be picnic areas, washrooms and plenty of parking for the public to enjoy this new park and its waterfront amenities.

Here is Owen Falquero speaking with CIDI: