AGENDA - Community Advisory Committee - 20191010Community
Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
7 p.m.
Holland Room
Aurora Town Hall
Public Release
October 3, 2019
Town of Aurora
Community Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Date: Thursday, October 10, 2019
Time and Location: 7 p.m., Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
1. Approval of the Agenda
Recommended:
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
3. Receipt of the Minutes
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes of June 20, 2019
Recommended:
That the Community Advisory Committee meeting minutes of June 20, 2019, be
received for information.
4. Delegations
5. Consideration of Items
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019 Page 2 of 3
1. CAC19-002 – 276 and 310 Hartwell Way – Non-Programmed Park Design
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CAC19-002 be received; and
2. That the comments and suggestions regarding 276 and 310 Hartwell W ay –
Non-Programmed Park Design be received and referred to staff for
consideration and action as appropriate.
2. CAC19-003 – Future Off-Leash Dog Park Locations
Recommended:
1. That Report No. CAC19-003 be received; and
2. That the comments and suggestions regarding Future Off-Leash Dog Park
Locations be received and referred to staff for consideration and action as
appropriate.
6. Informational Items
3. Memorandum from Manager, Business Support
Re: Outdoor Sports Field Development Strategy
Recommended:
1. That the memorandum regarding Outdoor Sports Field Development
Strategy be received for information.
4. Memorandum from Manager, Recreation
Re: Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study – Update
Recommended:
1. That the memorandum regarding Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study – Update
be received for information.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019 Page 3 of 3
5. Memorandum from Deputy Town Clerk
Re: Advisory Committee Chair Rotation
Recommended:
1. That the memorandum regarding Advisory Committee Chair Rotation be
received for information.
7. Adjournment
Town of Aurora
Community Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date: Thursday, June 20, 2019
Time and Location: 7 p.m., Holland Room, Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members: Sera Weiss (Chair), Denis Heng (Vice Chair), Barry
Bridgeford, Councillor Rachel Gilliland, Chris Gordon,
Balpreet Grewal, Councillor Harold Kim, Janet Mitchell, and
Jennifer Sault
Members Absent: Chris MacEachern
Other Attendees: Anca Mihail, Manager of Engineering and Capital Delivery,
Lisa Warth, Manager, Recreation, and Linda Bottos,
Council/Committee Coordinator
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
1. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Councillor Gilliland
Seconded by Janet Mitchell
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.50.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Minutes
Page 1 of 4
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday, June 20, 2019 Page 2 of 4
3. Receipt of the Minutes
Moved by Barry Bridgeford
Seconded by Chris Gordon
That the Community Advisory Committee meeting minutes of May 2, 2019, be
received for information.
Carried
4. Delegations
None
5. Matters for Consideration
1. Memorandum from Manager, Recreation
Re: Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study
Staff introduced the project consultant, Mr. Stuart Isaac, President of Isaac
Sports Group, who provided an overview of the feasibility study goals and
objectives including methodology, program development, design options, site
options, detailed financial operating analysis, and final report.
The Committee inquired about various aspects of the study including the
planned approach and detailed analysis of site options, identification and
analysis of community/user group needs and opportunities, carbon footprint
reduction, community engagement methodology, alternatives to chlorine, and
pool air quality.
The Committee made suggestions regarding community engagement to
include surveys, various social media platforms, and reaching out to potential
users as well as current users, group homes, private club members, and
therapy providers. The Committee further suggested consideration of a
subsidized fees assistance program to ensure that all residents have the
opportunity to use the facilities.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Minutes
Page 2 of 4
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday, June 20, 2019 Page 3 of 4
Moved by Barry Bridgeford
Seconded by Councillor Kim
1. That the memorandum regarding Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study be
received for information.
Carried
2. Memorandum from GIS Infrastructure Analyst
Re: Community Energy Plan (CEP) – Stakeholder Working Group
Staff provided a brief overview of the memorandum and background to the
development process of the Community Energy Plan (CEP), noting that the
Stakeholder Working Group will contribute throughout the development of the
CEP.
The Committee and staff discussed opportunities for public outreach and input,
social media, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and the plans being
developed by other York Region municipalities. Members of the Committee
expressed interested in participating in the development process.
Moved by Jennifer Sault
Seconded by Councillor Gilliland
1. That the memorandum regarding Community Energy Plan (CEP) –
Stakeholder Working Group be received; and
2. That the Community Advisory Committee nominate Barry Bridgeford to
participate in the Community Energy Plan’s Stakeholder Working Group
(SWG).
Carried
6. Informational Items
None
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Minutes
Page 3 of 4
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday, June 20, 2019 Page 4 of 4
7. Adjournment
Moved by Janet Mitchell
Seconded by Councillor Kim
That the meeting be adjourned at 8:32 p.m.
Carried
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Minutes
Page 4 of 4
Town of Aurora
Community Advisory Committee
Report No. CAC19-002
Subject: 276 and 310 Hartwell Way – Non Programmed Park Design
Prepared by: Sara Tienkamp, Manager of Parks & Fleet
Department: Operational Services
Date: October 10, 2019
Recommendations
1. That Report No. CAC19-002 be received; and
2. That the Community Advisory Committee (CAC) provide a recommendation to
Council for their consideration in authorizing that staff commence the
detailed design and tendering process for 276 and 310 Hartwell Way and
proceed with Capital Project No: 73299, as presented.
Executive Summary
This report provides Council with information associated with the preliminary design
concepts of a new neighbourhood park located at 276 and 310 Hartwell Way:
• Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommendations outline high priorities
• Design concepts include a number of amenities for non-programmed park,
including Master Plan recommendations.
• Parkland space limitations not conducive to sports fields
• Proximity of park to two (2) future school sites could enhance educational
programming
Background
Through the development of the 2C lands, the Town of Aurora acquired .85 hectares of
parkland from Brookfield Homes and another .75 hectares from the St. Johns
Development Corporation. Both blocks are adjacent to one another on Hartwell Way.
The land was identified through the 2C Master Parks agreement and was conveyed as
per the 2C Secondary Plan for a total of 1.6 hectares of parkland between the two (2)
blocks.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 1
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October 10, 2019 Page 2 of 6 Report No. CAC19-002
Both the 2010 and 2016 Parks and Recreation Master Plans identified a large deficit in
the provision of parkland to address the growing needs of the community, ensuring they
have sufficient access to spaces that are capable of range of recreational pursuits. The
addition of this parcel has helped address the shortfall.
As part of the 2018 budget deliberations, Council approved Capital Project No: 73299
Non – Programmed Park 2C Lands to design, tender and construct the neighbourhood
park for 1.5 million.
Analysis
Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommendations outline priorities
The purpose of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan is to help guide the provision of
the Town’s parks and facilities over a five (5) year period. The objectives are to identify
trends in sport and recreation, recognize parkland and facility needs and to outline
priorities, timing and costs.
Many of the recommendations in the 2010 and 2016 Master Plans have been delivered.
The following chart lists the 2016 recommended initiatives still ongoing or outstanding
with priority rating, suitable for a 1.6 hectare neighbourhood park.
Park Amenity Priority
Off Leash Dog Park Medium
Playgrounds High
Garden Plot Program High
Trails and Pathways High
Design concepts include a number of amenities for non-programmed park,
including Master Plan recommendations
The preliminary two (2) concept designs for the park include the following amenities
consisting of different layouts:
• Asphalt paved parking lot, +/-28 Cars with accessible space(s)
• Community gardens with raised planting beds
• Shelter area for shade
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
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October 10, 2019 Page 3 of 6 Report No. CAC19-002
• Wildlife Park Information Centre
• Integrated pedestrian walkway system with (future) trail connections and multiple
access points
• Naturalized interpretive play area/playground
• Natural themed off leash Dog Park.
• Open space features, maze with naturalized planting, native plant material and
self sustaining. Gathering area.
• Creation of natural planting areas, with native plant material, varying height
landforms and overall integration into the community to encourage pollinators.
The park, in general, will have an overall natural aesthetic recognizing the connection to
the natural environment on many levels. The design hopes to inspire free, creative
play, link people to the land and provide interesting/unique amenities for the
neighbourhood park.
As the parkland sits at the north end of the Community Wildlife Park (CWP), there is an
opportunity to connect trails from park into the CWP and provide for a meeting area with
interpretive signage and maps for users.
Staff attempted to include garden plots in two (2) parks over the past couple years
(McMahon Park and Thomas Coates Park) but neighbouring residents have been in
opposition. Primary concerns have been increased traffic in park and wildlife.
Community gardens have great benefits and have been included in this park design.
Garden plots are raised off the ground and accessible, so residents unable to bend and
kneel can grow vegetables/flowers etc. Gardening can be done solo or is an
opportunity to bond with family or friends. It creates a strong sense of community,
elevating happiness, the sense of accomplishment and more importantly, reducing
stress. Horticultural therapy is a new term in the health and wellness industry,
describing the benefits of gardening.
Also included is a small scale dog park so neighbours can have their dogs exercise and
interact in a leash free zone. Park will include natural play elements for dogs including
tunnel logs/large stones etc. Park maintenance program will be modelled after Canine
Commons through an Adopt-a-Park agreement with volunteers.
Amenity will not be included in the design if staff are unable to acquire a volunteer
group.
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan recommends playgrounds should be provided in
new and existing residential areas where geographic gaps exist, generally calculated
through application of an 800 m service radius that is unobstructed by major pedestrian
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
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October 10, 2019 Page 4 of 6 Report No. CAC19-002
barriers. Within an 800 m radius of this parkland there are four (4) existing playgrounds
(Thomas Coates Park, Ada Johnson Park, Edward Coltham Park and an unnamed park
on Radial Drive). Despite this, staff have included a naturalized playground as part of
the park design as there have been inquires from the public about including one in
future design, as the Town does not have one. Naturalized playgrounds have
advantages over purpose-built playgrounds as they promote diverse physical activity
and creative play. Children are encouraged to explore and create without limitations in
this inclusive/accessible, designed environment.
Parkland space limitations not conducive to sports fields
Sports fields, primarily rectangular fields are in a shortage. Staff looked at potentially
including a sports field on the parkland. W hen positioned in the optimal north/south
orientation the field is not able to be placed in this park as the depth of the park is not
conducive. If rotated east/west the field is not ideal for play and limits space for other
recreational opportunities.
There is no new available parkland to address the amenities not delivered upon to date
in the Master Plan, so use of this land for these items is a priority. In addition, there are
opportunities for partnerships with school boards for sports fields, all of which are being
explored in the Outdoor Sports Field Development Strategy, being undertaken presently
by the Community Services Department.
Proximity of park to two (2) future school sites could enhance educational
programming
The new park is located directly across the street from two elementary school board
sites. This close proximity will allow schools to utilize the information center and trail
access point for the Wildlife Park providing for an educational experience, exploring our
trails and learning about the wildlife within the protected park. This being one of the key
objectives identified in the Community Wildlife Park Master Plan.
In addition the garden plots could be utilized on a similar manner with educational
programming opportunities for school children.
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
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October 10, 2019 Page 5 of 6 Report No. CAC19-002
Legal Considerations
None.
Financial Implications
Following Council approval of the parkland concept, staff will complete a more detailed
design and final cost estimate.
Communications Considerations
There are no external communication required at this time.
Link to Strategic Plan
The Non Programmed Park Design supports the Strategic Plan Goal of Supporting an
Exceptional Quality of Life for All, by encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
Develop a long-term needs assessment for recreation programs, services and
operations to match the evolving needs of the growing and changing population.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
1. Council could recommend the staff go out for public consultation on park design
prior to approval.
Conclusions
Staff recommends that the Capital Project proceed as presented and designed.
Attachments
Attachment #1 – Non Programmed Park Concept Plan – Option 1
Attachment #2 – Non Programmed Park Concept Plan – Option 2
Previous Reports
None.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
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October 10, 2019 Page 6 of 6 Report No. CAC19-002
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review electronically on September 25, 2019.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
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Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda Thursday, October 10, 2019 Item 1 Page 7 of 8
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda Thursday, October 10, 2019 Item 1 Page 8 of 8
Town of Aurora
Community Advisory Committee
Report No. CAC19-003
Subject: Future Off-Leash Dog Park Locations
Prepared by: Sara Tienkamp, Manager of Parks & Fleet
Department: Operational Services
Date: October 10, 2019
Recommendations
1. That Report No. CAC19-003 be received; and
2. That Block 166 in Phase 2 of the Highland Gate Development be approved for
an Off-Leash Dog Park and staff be directed to develop the design and
construction of the park with HGD through the future subdivision agreement;
and
3. That staff prepare a Capital Budget Project for the development of the Hydro
One Corridor lands between Wellington Street East and St. Johns Sideroad
for Council deliberations during the 2021 Capital Budget Review.
Executive Summary
This report provides Council with information associated with potential future off-leash
dog park locations:
• Land within Phase 2 of Highland Gate Development identified for neighbourhood
off-leash facility
• Additional off-leash park locations that potentially could be considered
• Dog parks benefit owners as well as their pets
• Dog Waste Diversion programs in place at many municipal off-leash parks in
GTA
Background
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan helps guide the provision of the Town’s parks
and facilities over a five (5) year period, identifying trends in sport and recreation.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 2
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October 10, 2019 Page 2 of 6 Report No. CAC19-003
Off-leash dog parks are recommended within the plan as a medium priority. It also
indicates that a similar model to that for “Canine Commons” be used, whereby a
community organization is primarily involved with the establishment, general
maintenance and ongoing operation of the park.
The Town of Aurora currently has one (1) community off-leash dog park being “Canine
Commons” which was established in 2003 located on Industrial Parkway North on a 1.8
hectares parcel of land inclusive of 20+ vehicle parking lot. The park serves the whole
community and is very popular with residents/visitors. Due to its popularity, staff have
had many inquires regarding the establishment of additional parks by the public, as well
through the former Parks and Recreation Services Advisory Committee.
Analysis
Land within Phase 2 of Highland Gate Development identified for neighbourhood
off-leash facility.
In 2018 a resident, who resides in the south/west area of Town, approached Town staff
interested in establishing an off-leash park in the area.
During discussions, staff presented the example for establishment and the ongoing
operation governance model, which the resident was more than receptive. Staff also
identified .35 hectares of land within the Highland Gate Development (HGD) that could
potentially be developed into an off-leash park. The area is Block 166 (Attachment #1)
within Phase 2 and at this time is proposed for a trail with pathway lighting. Due to the
size of the parcel of land and location, this potential off-leash park would be for
neighbourhood use and residents would gain access by walking to the park through the
trail system.
As this land is located within HGD, staff met with the Chair of the Highland Gate
Ratepayers Group (HGRG) and presented a Concept Plan in the fall of 2018. The plan
and potential location were distributed to HGRG. The Town was informed that the plan
was received and that there was not any opposition to the initiative.
The concept plan (Attachment #2) for the park includes a continuous trail through the
park, enhanced buffer plantings along residential property lines to the south, fenced dog
park including plantings and seating areas, with naturalized environmental protection
lands to the north.
If it is determined that this land is to be established into an off-leash park, staff will work
with HGD on the future park design and construction though Phase 2 of the subdivision
agreement.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 2
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October 10, 2019 Page 3 of 6 Report No. CAC19-003
Additional Off-leash Park locations that potentially could be considered.
Two (2) other locations have been identified by staff for off-leash parks:
Non Programmed Park – 276 & #10 Hartwell Way
As part of the concept design for the new parkland on Hartwell Way staff have included
a small scale dog park so neighbours can have their dogs exercise and interact in a
leash free zone. Park will include natural play elements for dogs including tunnel logs/
large stones etc. Park maintenance program will be modelled after “Canine Commons”
through an Adopt-a-Park agreement with volunteers. Amenity will not be included in the
design if staff are unable to acquire a volunteer group.
Hydro One Corridor Lands
The land within the Hydro One Corridor (east of Bayview Ave) could potentially be
turned into a leash free trail, running from Wellington to St. John’s Sideroad. Currently
these lands are utilized by many local dog walkers.
Staff would need to explore many factors prior to this undertaking. First and foremost,
getting approval from Hydro One to utilize the lands, entering into a formal agreement if
project proceeded (Town currently has two (2) agreements, one (1) being a portion of
Queens Diamond Jubilee Park).
In addition, fencing would need to be evaluated, as not all of the corridor is fenced nor is
bordered by residential rear yards. Gates and signage would need to be installed and
turf maintenance would need to be considered as lands are currently mowed once a
month by Hydro One during the growing season. Other considerations from an
operational perspective would be increased demands on staff both in the By-law
Division and Parks Division. Staff would prepare a capital budget sheet reflecting the
proposed initiative for Council deliberation should this location be a consideration.
Dog parks benefit owners as well as their pets
There are several benefits a dog park has to offer as far as pets are concerned but
owners can garner the effects of many of the same advantages which include:
• Socialization – while this is important for pets it is just as important for people
and provides an opportunity to meet and get to know you neighbours;
• No leash – allows both you and your pet to roam free without being tethered to
one another, less effort and stress on both parties;
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
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October 10, 2019 Page 4 of 6 Report No. CAC19-003
• Shared experiences – allows you to converse with like-minded individuals and
share information regarding your pet experiences;
• Pets playing – owners enjoy seeing their pets having fun, creates a sense of
happiness; and
• Taking a break – park setting provides for an overall sense of calm as there are
seating areas, trees, greenery and fresh air, allows for change of pace/routine.
Dog Waste Diversion programs in place at many municipal off-leash parks in GTA
Disposal of pet waste is an ongoing issue at dog parks. It creates unpleasant odours,
needs frequent removal and is typically contaminated with other debris (coffee
cups/paper etc.).
Currently at “Canine Commons”, the volunteer group picks and up and disposes of pet
waste from the park in green bins provided by the Town. These bins are then moved to
the curbside for weekly pick up. This is especially unpleasant in the summer months as
the heat intensifies the odours of the waste.
Other municipalities in the GTA (Pickering, Mississauga) have successfully introduced
ground collection containers at many of their dog parks and regular parks to deal with
pet waste issues and cross-contamination. These large capacity containers are installed
below ground where the depth allows for cooler conditions and no direct sunlight,
eliminating odours and maximizing capacity and frequency of service. The containers
are serviced by waste diversion companies who transfer the waste to an anaerobic bio-
digester facility where it is safely converted into energy and/or fertilizer. Objectives that
can be archived are:
• Secure containment with no odour and no cross-contamination due to design;
• Control (avoid) stormwater and waste fluid leachate;
• Maximize volume of material containment, reducing frequently of service/truck
emissions;
• Creation of green energy;
• Park only requires one (1) pet waste receptacle; and
• Cleaner, more efficient process.
Initial capital costs are greater, for the purchase and installation of the in-ground
systems and requires a private company to collect and dispose of the waste. These
could, however, be offset by corporate sponsorship and license fees which could help
offset the dispenser program. Staff will investigate this technology further including
capital and operational costs and if included in future parks, financial impacts will be
presented for budget consideration.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 2
Page 4 of 8
October 10, 2019 Page 5 of 6 Report No. CAC19-003
Advisory Committee Review
Not applicable.
Legal Considerations
None.
Financial Implications
Cost for the construction of the HGD Off-Leash Park will be negotiated through Phase 2
of the Highland Gate Subdivision Agreement. Future potential off leash park location
financial implications will be will be presented for future Capital Budget deliberations.
Communications Considerations
There are no external communication required at this time.
Link to Strategic Plan
The Off-Leash Dog Park supports the Strategic Plan Goal of Supporting an Exceptional
Quality of Life for All, by encouraging an active and healthy lifestyle.
Develop a long-term needs assessment for recreation programs, services and
operations to match the evolving needs of the growing and changing population.
Alternative(s) to the Recommendation
Option #1 – Council provide further direction
Conclusions
Staff recommend with proceeding with the development of an off leash dog park within
Block 166, Phase 2, of the Highland Gate Development.
Attachments
Attachment #1 – Proposed Off-leash Dog Park Location Map
Attachment #2 – Concept Plan HGD Off-leash Dog Park
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 2
Page 5 of 8
October 10, 2019 Page 6 of 6 Report No. CAC19-003
Previous Reports
None.
Pre-submission Review
Agenda Management Team review electronically on September 25, 2019.
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 2
Page 6 of 8
William Heath Court
George StreetGeorge Street
Ransom StreetRansom Street
Brookland AvenueBrookland AvenueFairway DriveFairway Drive
Cousins DriveCousins Drive
Royal RoadRoyal Road
Nisbet DriveNisbet DriveDunning AvenueDunning Avenue
BBaannbbuurryyCCoouurrttBBrrooookkllaann dd AAvveennuuee
GGoollff LLiinnkkss DDrriivvee
YONGE STREETYONGE STREETPROPOSED DOG PARK
Map created by the Town of Aurora Planning & Development Services Department, September 17, 2019. Base data provided by York Region and Aurora - GIS.
FIGURE 1
Proposed Dog Park (0.35 hectares)
Environmental Protection
Servicing
Highland Gate Lots
Proposed Trail Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda Thursday, October 10, 2019Item 2 Page 7 of 8
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda Thursday, October 10, 2019 Item 2 Page 8 of 8
Memorandum
Date: October 10, 2019
To: Community Advisory Committee
From: John Firman, Manager, Business Support
Re: Outdoor Sports Field Development Strategy
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Outdoor Field Development Strategy be
received for information.
Background
The Town of Aurora has engaged Monteith Brown Planning Consultants to undertake
research and prepare an Outdoor Field Development Strategy.
The need for a comprehensive sports field development strategy was identified through
2018 discussions at Council and with various sport field user groups regarding the
development of the Hallmark Lands. With the various inputs required from user groups and
other stakeholders, and extensive research required to properly develop a strategy, staff
recommended an independent consultant be retained to conduct this research and develop
a strategy.
Project description:
To conduct research and develop an outdoor sports field development strategy, including:
• Evaluating existing field inventory and utilization rates
• Assessing past, present and projected membership data for primary sports field user
groups
• Consulting with sports field user groups and other stakeholders regarding field use
requirements
100 John West Way
Box 1000
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
Phone: 905-727-3123 ext. 4328
Email: jfirman@aurora.ca
www.aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Community Services
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 3
Page 1 of 2
Outdoor Sports Field Development Strategy
October 10, 2019 Page 2 of 2
The scope of work ensures fulsome recommendations are provided as an outcome of the
study, including recommendations for:
• Re-purposing existing assets
• Acquisition/development of new assets
• Alternative strategies for multi-use assets, rather than one-for-one replacements
• Replacement of third party fields that are expected to be lost in the near future
Staff would like the Committee to be aware of this study and the upcoming presentation to
Council of the Outdoor Sports Field Development Strategy and have an opportunity to
comment or ask questions related to the study. The anticipated completion date for this
strategy is November 2019. Staff will be in attendance to speak to the study.
Attachments
None
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 3
Page 2 of 2
Memorandum
Date: October 10, 2019
To: Community Advisory Committee
From: Lisa Warth, Manager, Recreation
Re: Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study – Update
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study – Update be
received for information.
Background
The Town of Aurora has engaged Isaac Sports Group (ISG) as a consultant to undertake
an aquatics feasibility study.
Staff introduced the study and the consultant was in attendance at the June 20, 2019
meeting of CAC.
The study is now in its final stages, with most research and stakeholder engagement
complete. Since the last update to CAC, ISG has completed the following:
• Two community open house meetings, drawing over 50 people from a wide range
of current and potential aquatic users and stakeholders
• Visited several aquatic facilities in surrounding communities
• Visited regional best practice and aspirational facilities
• Worked with aquatic user groups/stakeholders to quantify their needs, potential for
growth and potential incremental rental and event revenue for the Town
• Analyzed the designs, spaces and programs in current Aurora aquatic and
recreation facilities
Several needs and challenges related to current facilities have been identified through this
research including:
100 John West Way
Box 1000
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
Phone: 905-727-3123 ext. 4765
Email: lwarth@aurora.ca
www.aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Community Services
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 4
Page 1 of 3
Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study - Update
October 10, 2019 Page 2 of 3
• Water temperature, depth and concurrent programming flexibility to accommodate
a full range of aquatic programming and recreation, especially during prime time
• Down time for maintenance both routine and unplanned
• The need for better support spaces such as locker rooms, storage, seating and
deck space, function space adjacent to pool deck
• Current water space and lanes limit the growth of the competitive aquatic
stakeholders
• Use of the pool by competitive programs during prime after school and evening
hours limits public access and programming during these key times
• Current facilities can only support small competitive aquatic events
Numerous opportunities have emerged including:
• A well-designed new aquatic facility can meet all current and future projected
programming needs.
• A new facility can create new and enhanced aquatic programs and recreation,
incorporating new trends and features in aquatics that are not currently available in
Aurora and the surrounding communities.
• A properly designed new aquatic facility creates the opportunity for some cost-
effective modifications of the existing pools to make them more beneficial to a wide
range of community users.
• A 50-metre main pool can provide significant growth opportunities for local
competitive aquatic programs and open up space in existing facilities for a wide
range of programs, lessons, lane swims, etc.
• A 50-metre option can generate significant additional revenue from outside teams
and user groups and attract event revenue that will help cover a portion of the
facility operating costs while not limiting ongoing community programming and daily
revenue.
• New water handling and pool technology can significantly reduce annual and long-
range operating and maintenance costs, resulting in new pools that are much more
energy and water efficient and environmentally friendly.
Design Options
2 design options are emerging as the most viable:
• Expansion of existing facility
o This option would see a single additional pool added to the existing SARC
site. This option limits the need for additional pools and all new support and
common spaces. This option would include some cost-effective updates of
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 4
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Aquatic Facility Feasibility Study - Update
October 10, 2019 Page 3 of 3
the existing 25-metre pool to make it more suitable to a wide range of
community programming and recreation. This would also include expanded
locker rooms and changing areas.
• New standalone facility
o A new standalone facility (or in conjunction with a new facility) would require
a minimum of two new pools, to create the optimum configurations, depth,
temperatures and multi-concurrent programming and scheduling to meet the
full range of community aquatic needs.
The final study will quantify the program and financial impact of these two options and
discuss site implications.
Staff would like the Committee to be aware of the progress to date and the emerging
findings on this important study. Staff anticipate the final report by the end of October and
a presentation to Council on this topic at the beginning of December 2019.
Attachments
None
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 4
Page 3 of 3
Memorandum
Date: October 10, 2019
To: Community Advisory Committee
From: Samantha Yew, Deputy Town Clerk
Re: Advisory Committee Chair Rotation
Recommendation
1.That the memorandum regarding Advisory Committee Chair Rotation be
received for information.
Background
At the Council meeting of July 23, 2019, Council passed a motion to amend the Town’s
Policy for Ad Hoc/Advisory Committees and Local Boards (“Policy”). Changes to the
Policy include:
•The position of Chair and Vice Chair be held for a one-year term, with elections
being held at the beginning of every calendar year;
•Citizen members may not act as a Chair or Vice Chair for more than two years in
a single term; and
•Should no citizen member put their name forward for the role of Chair,
Councillors are able to serve as Chair without any term restrictions.
As the new provisions of the Policy are now in effect, the next Chair and Vice Chair will
be elected at the first Committee meeting of 2020.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – Extract from July 23, 2019 Council meeting, Motion (a) Councillor
Thompson Re: Advisory Committee Chair Rotation
100 John West Way
Box 1000
Aurora, Ontario
L4G 6J1
Phone: 905-727-3123 ext. 4224
Email: syew@aurora.ca
www.aurora.ca
Town of Aurora
Corporate Services
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 5
Page 1 of 2
8. Motions
(a) Councillor Thompson
Re: Advisory Committee Chair Rotation
Moved by Councillor Thompson
Seconded by Councillor Humfryes
Whereas the Town’s Procedure By-Law and Policy for Ad/Hoc Advisory Committees
and Local Boards govern all meetings; and
Whereas in the interest of good governance there is value in rotating the Committee
Chair; and
Whereas the rotation of roles and responsibilities can develop/enhance a committee
member’s skillset, create additional engagement, and help build a stronger ‘team’
environment; and
Whereas some committees/boards, such as Aurora Public Library Board, Joint
Council Committee, and Finance Advisory Committee, already rotate the Chair;
1.Now Therefore Be It Hereby Resolved That the Town’s Policy for Ad
Hoc/Advisory Committees and Local Boards be amended so that the position of
Chair and Vice Chair of each Advisory Committee be for a one-year term; and
2.Be It Further Resolved That at the start of each calendar year elections be held
for the Chair and Vice Chair positions, and that no citizen member may act as
Chair or Vice Chair for more than two years in a single term of Council; and
3.Be It Further Resolved That members of Council may serve as Chair should no
citizen member put their name forward, and that members of Council not be
subject to any term restrictions.
Carried
Extract from
Council Meeting of
Tuesday, July 23, 2019
Attachment 1
Community Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, October 10, 2019
Item 5
Page 2 of 2