“May I invite you, your worship, and members of council to give consideration to the purchase of a corner on the board?” Rotary’s Leo Hughes wrote to council. “That corner would be the starting point of the game with the familiar words Collect $200.”

At a council meeting Feb. 27, Coun. Lynn Grinstead flatly rejected the idea of giving taxpayer money to the project, saying it would encourage other groups to ask the town for money.

Reeve Walter Stack agreed with the slippery-slope possibility. Coun. Mark Willmer said the town has already donated and in-kind services to the 150th celebrations.

Grinstead made it clear that the town wouldn’t be assisting other fundraisers, that they are “complementary” to the 150th committee that she chairs, and that any group is welcome to participate in the project.

Mayor David Reid and councillors Dan Lynch and Lyle Anderson were absent.

Parks and Recreation director Glenn Arthur said the board game is meant to reflect the town of Arnprior, therefore the Town of Arnprior should participate.

He said the funds will eventually make their way back to the town. But that more importantly, it would show support when Rotary approaches businesses for their participation.

Coun. Ted Strike said there is a finite amount in the budget.

“There’s only so much money,” Strike said. “And you can’t turn off the tap if others ask for it.”

Arthur said the town is “forever giving money to other service groups” through free rentals, but that this “is just cash.”

Council decided not to buy the spot, but did agree with Rotary’s second request - to allow for the use of the town crest on the game board.