Gravenhurst Council approved a $230,000 annual funding increase for the Muskoka Steamship Discovery Centre (MSDC), in the October 15, 2024 meeting.
Director of Financial Services/Treasurer, Ross Jeffery indicated that the previous annual grant was $130,000. He added that the increase “is a reasonable amount” compared to museums in other municipalities. His report indicates area comparators include Huntsville at $605,896, Orillia $571,857, and Penetanguishene at $309,392. The report also indicates that the Town doesn’t have the funds to allocate the full increase, “as it would constitute more than a half percent increase to the Town property tax rate alone, which was not fully contemplated in the estimation of the recommended budget guideline for 2025.”
Therefore, he recommended the Town phase in the increase over the next 3 years, with $20,000 in the first year, $35,000 in the second year, and $45,000 in the third year. He added, “Then indexed by 2% each year thereafter.” His report adds that staff also estimate a corporate financial impact of $15,000 for 2025. The increase is in line with operational changes since the agreement was initially established in 2007, including the Town’s adoption of the new building, according to the report.

It adds, "Across Ontario, it is not uncommon for museums to require municipal and upper government support to fund their annual operating activities.” It adds, “This is also the case with the Muskoka Discovery Centre, which attracts approximately 20,000 visitors to Gravenhurst each year.” The MSDC was also faced with a deficit of $288,736 in 2023, and another $72,578 was reported in August 2024, indicates the report. It adds, “With revenues being impacted in part by the Bay and Beyond construction project at the Wharf.”

It continues that the MSDC also requested the 50% sharing of the operational surpluses with the Town be removed from the agreement. Councillor Sandy Cairns expressed satisfaction with the changes for “running a state-of-the-art museum to keep the doors open.” Councillor Randy Jorgensen expressed the importance of providing recognition of the Indigenous, especially for a Town the size of Gravenhurst. Staff will draw up new Operating and License Agreements, and a Lease of Municipal Lands.