AGENDA - Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee - 20180215Parks, Recreation
and Cultural Services
Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
7 p.m.
Holland Room
Aurora Town Hall
Public Release
February 8, 2018
Town of Aurora
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services
Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Date: Thursday, February 15, 2018
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
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
of November 30, 2017
Recommended:
That the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee meeting
minutes of November 30, 2017, be received for information.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018 Page 2 of 2
4. Delegations
5. Matters for Consideration
6. Informational Items
1. Memorandum from Acting Director, Community Services
Re: Pricing Policy for Recreation Services
Recommended:
1. That the memorandum regarding Pricing Policy for Recreation Services be
received for information.
2. Extract from Council Meeting of January 30, 2018
Re: Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting
Minutes of November 30, 2017
Recommended:
1. That the Extract from Council Meeting of January 30, 2018, regarding the
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee meeting
minutes of November 30, 2017, be received for information.
7. New Business
8. Adjournment
Town of Aurora
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services
Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes
Date: Thursday, November 30, 2017
Time and Location: 7 p.m., Leksand Room, Aurora Town Hall
Committee Members: Councillor Tom Mrakas (Chair), Councillor Michael
Thompson (Vice Chair), Reg Chappell, Juergen Daurer,
Richard Doust, Stephen Kimmerer, Eric McCartney, and
Brian Trussler
Member(s) Absent: None
Other Attendees: Councillor Wendy Gaertner, Allan Downey, Director of
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services, and Ishita Soneji,
Council/Committee Secretary
The Chair called the meeting to order at 7 p.m.
Councillor Mrakas relinquished the Chair to Councillor Thompson at 8:37 p.m., during
the consideration of New Business Motion No. 1, and resumed the Chair at 8:50 p.m.
1. Approval of the Agenda
Moved by Juergen Daurer
Seconded by Richard Doust
That the agenda as circulated by Legislative Services be approved.
Carried
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Minutes
Page 1 of 4
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday, November 30, 2017 Page 2 of 4
2. Declarations of Pecuniary Interest and General Nature Thereof
There were no declarations of pecuniary interest under the Municipal Conflict of
Interest Act.
3. Receipt of the Minutes
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
of April 20, 2017
Moved b y Richard Doust
Seconded by Stephen Kimmerer
That the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee meeting
minutes of April 20, 2017, be received for information.
Carried
4. Delegations
None
5. Matters for Consideration
1. Round Table Discussion
Re: Facility Fit for the New Multi-Sport Facility
Staff provided an update regarding the proposed new multi-purpose sport facility
including an overview of the possible supportable facility types, amenities within
each facility, consultation with Sport Aurora, plans for public consultation, and
updates on facility design development.
The Committee discussed various aspects of the proposed facility types with
respect to the growing needs of the Town population, sport tourism, and funding
model for the project.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Minutes
Page 2 of 4
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday, November 30, 2017 Page 3 of 4
Moved by Richard Doust
Seconded by Reg Chappell
1. That the comments and discussion regarding Facility Fit for the New Multi-
Sport Facility be referred to staff for consideration and action as
appropriate.
Carried
6. Informational Items
2. Extract from Council Meeting of June 13, 2017
Re: Parks and Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Minutes of April 20, 2017
Moved by Juergen Daurer
Seconded by Reg Chappell
1. That the Extract from Council Meeting of June 13, 2017, regarding the
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee meeting
minutes of April 20, 2017, be received for information.
Carried
7. New Business
The Committee and staff discussed and identified the need for additional
recreational space, specifically an additional gymnasium within the current facilities.
New Business Motion No. 1
Moved by Councillor Mrakas
Seconded by Richard Doust
1. That the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
recommend to Council:
(a) That staff investigate the feasibility and costs for a gymnasium at the
Stronach Aurora Recreation Complex (SARC) within the 2018 budget.
Carried
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Minutes
Page 3 of 4
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes
Thursday, November 30, 2017 Page 4 of 4
Eric McCartney inquired about the education pamphlets regarding pet waste, and
staff provided an update.
Eric McCartney inquired about the plan to replace subdivision markers, and staff
agreed to investigate and report back.
8.Adjournment
Moved by Reg Chappell
Seconded by Juergen Daurer
That the meeting be adjourned at 8:59 p.m.
Carried
Committee recommendations are not binding on the Town unless otherwise adopted
by Council.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Minutes
Page 4 of 4
Memorandum
Date: February 15, 2018
To: Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
From: Lisa Warth, Acting Director, Community Services
Re: Pricing Policy for Recreation Services
Recommendation
1. That the memorandum regarding Pricing Policy for Recreation Services be
received for information.
Background
The Town of Aurora is undertaking a review of the pricing policy for Recreation programs
and services. The current policy was adopted in 2009 and requires an update and review.
The pricing policy provides guidance to staff to ensure an effective allocation of public tax
dollars. The pricing policy considers many factors such as balancing the recreation interests
of individuals and those of the wider community, the role of the Town as a service provider,
access and affordability, value, community participation and fiscal responsibility and
accountability. With changes and growth in the community and the Region, it is prudent to
review the pricing policy at this time.
Attachments
Attachment 1 – 2009 Pricing Policy for Recreation Services
Attachment 2 – Leisure Services Advisory Committee Report No. LS09-025 – Pricing
Policy, dated May 21, 2009
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
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 1 of 11
IBI Group, January 22, 2009 Version – Final Recommended Policy 1
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AURORA
DEPARTMENT OF LEISURE SERVICES
PRICING POLICY FOR RECREATION SERVICES
SECTION I: DEFINITIONS
In this Policy:
Capital Cost means the cost to replace the Town’s recreation/leisure service facilities over the next 50 years.
Cost Recovery means the amount/proportion of total operating costs (direct and indirect) paid for by the user of a
program, facility or service rather than by the municipality through its tax base.
Direct Facility Operating Cost means the costs of facility union and part-time wage costs/benefits, light, heat, water, and
maintenance, operating supplies and any costs to provide the space for the activity to take place.
Direct Program Operating Cost means the costs of part-time wages/benefits or contract fees, materials, supplies and
rental costs associated with the provision of a program.
Indirect Facility Operating Cost means the costs of full-time staff salary/benefits and overhead costs for directors,
managers, operations supervisors, booking clerks, and carpenters associated with the provision of space for recreational
activities to take place.
Indirect Program Operating Cost means full-time staff salary/benefits and overhead costs for director, manager, complex
administration and department administration associated with the provision of a program.
Low Income Household means the threshold, as determined by Statistics Canada, at which a household devotes a larger
share of income to the necessities of food, shelter and clothing than the average family.1
Public Good Characteristics means a good or service that is available for everyone to consume and provides
community-wide benefits (e.g. education, transit, recreation). While there is a cost associated with the provision of public
goods, the cost is shared by all members of the community. One person’s participation/consumption does not preclude
another person from participating or consuming that same good.
Target Group means a subset of the Town of Aurora’s population intended to be the main beneficiaries of a recreational
service or a subset of the population with specific physical, social and/or financial needs (e.g. children, youth, seniors, low
income households, special needs groups, new or emerging groups).
Total Operating Costs means the total direct and indirect program and facility costs.
User Fee means a fee paid directly by a user to gain access to a program, facility or service (e.g. admission or
membership fees, program registration fees, facility or equipment rental/permit fees, special service charges, etc.).
SECTION II: PURPOSE
The Town of Aurora is committed to promoting a healthy environment and fostering the social and physical
well-being of its residents. The municipality provides a range of recreational facilities and programs through
its Leisure Services Department. All recreational services provided by the Town of Aurora have a cost
associated with them. Some recreational services and amenities are paid for solely by the municipality
through tax dollars, and are available at no additional cost to users (e.g. parks, trails, splash pads, programs
for special target groups). For other services and amenities, users must pay an admission, program, permit
or service fee (e.g. swimming lessons, ice rental, camps, and fitness centres). This user fee revenue is used
to offset a portion of the facility and program operating costs.
The Town requires an up-to-date recreation pricing policy and a consistent and transparent approach to
setting affordable user fees in order to:
1. Accommodate the needs of Aurora’s expanding and diversifying population and balance the
interests of individuals and those of the wider community; and
2. Effectively allocate public funds for recreational services and facilities and achieve appropriate cost
recovery targets.
1 For a municipality the size of Aurora, Statistics Canada identifies the low income cut-off at $11,784 (before tax, 2005 dollars) for a one-person household
and up to $47,063 (before tax, 2005 dollars) for a household with seven or more persons. Source: Low Income Cut-offs for 2005 and Low Income
Measures for 2004, Catalogue No. 75F0002MIE - No. 004
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 2 of 11
IBI Group, January 22, 2009 Version – Final Recommended Policy 2
Balancing the Recreational Interests of Individuals and Those of the Wider Community
Studies undertaken by federal and provincial government agencies and reputable research institutes clearly
illustrate that investment in recreation can result in long-term health care and social service cost savings and
that an active population can contribute to the economic vitality of a municipality. As such, the use of public
funds to promote and facilitate general access to recreation not only benefits the lives of individual users, but
the community at-large.
Some recreational activities, however, have greater ‘public good’ characteristics than others, such as
teaching essential life and safety skills, allowing for broad participation and/or providing services to special
target groups. In addition, there are certain recreational facilities that the private market generally cannot
provide at an affordable rate due to large capital and on-going operating costs (e.g. swimming pools, outdoor
sports fields). The Town of Aurora plays an important role in providing public access to such facilities at a
reasonable cost and should prioritize the allocation of public funding for such activities. Other recreational
activities and facilities have fewer ‘public good’ characteristics as they primarily benefit a smaller number of
users and can be reasonably accessed through the private or non-profit sector.
Effective Allocation of Public Tax Dollars
Historically, the Department of Leisure Services wisely used public funds to successfully provide affordable
access to recreation services. This formal pricing policy is intended as a general mechanism for effectively
and consistently allocating municipal tax dollars. It will provide a higher level of certainty for achieving
minimum cost recovery targets through the generation of user fee revenue.
This recreation pricing policy provides a transparent and consistent approach to setting user fees and cost
recovery targets as it is based on:
1. A series of guiding principles that will ensure a fair, objective and equitable approach is used to
consistently set user fees;
2. The recognized need for affordable access to basic recreation services for all Aurora residents, and
particularly target groups such as children, seniors, special needs populations, low income
households; and
3. The categorization of all Town of Aurora recreation facilities, programs and services, with lower cost
recovery targets for those activities which have greater ‘public good’ characteristics and
progressively higher cost recovery targets for those activities with more limited ‘public good’
characteristics.
SECTION III: GUIDING PRINCIPLES
In consultation with recreation and leisure user groups, the following series of principles were established to
help guide the pricing of all Town of Aurora recreational facilities, programs and services. These guiding
principles reflect the strategic goals and objectives of the Town of Aurora and will allow for a consistent and
transparent approach to setting user fees.
Role of the Town as a Service Provider
The Town of Aurora will strive to continue to provide the opportunity for Aurora residents to participate in a wide
variety of physical and non-physical recreational programs and activities;
As the provider in the first resort, The Town of Aurora will aim to provide recreational facilities and services that
are not generally offered by the private sector (e.g. parks and trails, outdoor sportsfield and ball diamonds,
swimming pools);
The Town of Aurora shall prioritize the funding of recreational facilities and programs that are most widely used
by Aurora residents and target groups; and
The Town of Aurora shall strive to respond to changing population needs, recreational trends and emerging
target groups;
The Town of Aurora recognizes the physical, social and economic benefits of providing recreation and leisure
services and promoting healthy, active lifestyles; and
The Town of Aurora recognizes the importance of being accountable to its users.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 3 of 11
IBI Group, January 22, 2009 Version – Final Recommended Policy 3
Access and Affordability
The Department of Leisure Services will aim to provide access to quality, affordable recreational services to all
residents and local user groups;
The Department of Leisure Services will strive to equitably set user fees and cost recovery targets for different
recreational activities;
The Department of Leisure Services understands the importance of pricing recreational facilities, programs and
services so as not to preclude or diminish participation;
The Department of Leisure Services shall consider the full range of costs incurred by groups and individuals to
participate in recreation, beyond the user fees charged by the Town (e.g. equipment, coaches, insurance,
travel);
The Department of Leisure Services supports providing children and youth groups with first access to lower cost
rental facilities/times (e.g. unlit sports fields and ball diamonds and non-prime time hours);
The Department of Leisure Services will aim to ensure that all low-income households and support service
providers are aware of the available financial assistance to access the Town’s recreation services and
programs.
The Department of Leisure Services will aim to promote and enhance opportunities for recreational activities that
are part of the Town’s public open space system and that have no associated user fees (i.e. walking, cycling,
hiking, use of splash pads, bird watching).
Value
The Department of Leisure Services is committed to providing clean, attractive and safe environments for
persons recreating in Aurora parks and facilities;
The Department of Leisure Services shall differentiate between types of recreational activities and service levels
through appropriate pricing; and
The Department of Leisure Services will strive to work with user groups to address the need to increase user
fees in order to accommodate user group requests for new or improved facilities, maintenance or materials.
Community Participation
The Department of Leisure Services shall encourage citizens to be actively involved in the organization and
delivery of recreation services;
The Department of Leisure Services shall strive to improve synergies between recreation groups, other service
providers, public agencies and Town staff;
The Department of Leisure Services recognizes the importance of developing partnerships with educational
boards/authorities, social service agencies, service clubs, volunteer groups, user groups and the private sector;
and
The Department of Leisure Services shall aim to provide leadership, assistance and recognition to individuals
and groups who help promote recreation and active living.
Fiscal Responsibility and Accountability
The Department of Leisure Services acknowledges that the Town of Aurora does not have the financial
resources to be the provider of recreation in the first resort for all activities;
The Department of Leisure Services recognizes the important role played by volunteers in the delivery of
recreation programs and services, including cost savings to the Town and its residents;
When setting user fees and cost recovery targets, the Town of Aurora shall consider the wider and longer-term
economic benefits when setting fees, such as health care and social service cost savings, sports tourism, etc.;
The Town of Aurora shall promote sports tourism and tournaments as a source of revenue for the municipality;
The Department of Leisure Services will strive to ensure broad public awareness of the wide range of recreation
facilities, programs and services provided by the Town;
The Department of Leisure Services will strive to promote increased participation and use of existing services
and facilities to increase the level of cost recovery through user fee revenue; and
The Department of Leisure Services shall continue to consider best management practices and potential for cost
savings in the delivery of recreation.
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 4 of 11
IBI Group, January 22, 2009 Version – Final Recommended Policy 4
Level 0 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Higher Level of Cost Recovery
Higher % of Operating Costs
Paid For By User Fees
Higher % of Operating Costs Paid
For By Municipal Tax Dollars
No or Lower Level of Cost Recovery
SECTION IV. CATEGORIZATION OF RECREATION SERVICES AND COST RECOVERY TARGETS
The Town of Aurora must prioritize the funding of its recreation services in order to provide the greatest
number of its residents, through broad-based participation, and target groups with affordable recreation
opportunities.
The classification of all recreation services as either Level 0, Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3 activities will help
distinguish between those activities that have the greatest ‘public good’ characteristics and for which no cost
recovery or lower cost recovery should be tolerated (e.g. Level 1) and those more advanced or specialized
programs and facilities for which user fees should cover a large portion of the total operating costs.
The following criteria are to be consistently used by the Department of Leisure Services to classify all
existing and future recreational facilities and programs.
Level 0 – No cost recovery through user fees.
The Town of Aurora will prioritize the funding of Level 0 recreational facilities and programs and require no
level of cost recovery given they have one or more of the following characteristics:
Facilities intended to provide open and unlimited access (e.g. parks, trails, playgrounds, outdoor splash pads,
skateboard and BMX facilities, outdoor skating rinks and tennis courts);
Sponsored facility access (e.g. Tim Horton’s Public Skate Hours);
Public community event (e.g. parade, festival); and
Special services for target groups (e.g. Seniors’ Hour, certain drop-in programs).
Level 1 - A minimum of 30% of the total operating costs should be covered by user fees.
The Town of Aurora will prioritize the funding of Level 1 recreational facilities and programs and tolerate a
lower level of cost recovery given they have one or more of the following characteristics:
Offered at an introductory/general level and use basic materials (e.g. Child Sing Along, Tai Chi Intro);
Aimed at target groups (e.g. children, youth, seniors, low income households, special needs groups, new or
emerging groups);
Largely supported by volunteers (e.g. youth team sports, senior’s centre);
Encourage family participation (e.g. recreational swimming and skating, parent and child pre-school programs);
Teaches essential life and safety skills (e.g. Babysitting Training, 55 Alive Drivers, Red Cross swim programs);
Promotes physical activity;
Encourages broad-based participation (i.e. fitness centres, lane swimming, basketball);
Provided by the Town in the first resort; and
Facilities that are part of the Town’s larger public parks and open space system (e.g. baseball diamonds and
sports fields).
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 5 of 11
IBI Group, January 22, 2009 Version – Final Recommended Policy 5
Level 2: A minimum of 55% of the total operating costs should be covered by user fees.
The Town of Aurora will fund a portion of Level 2 recreational facilities and programs through the
municipality’s tax base, but aim for a higher level of cost recovery through user fees given that Level 2
services have one or more of the following characteristics:
Offered to target groups at an intermediate level or are specialized holiday events (e.g. Holiday Art Adventure,
Show Biz Kids, Intermediate French);
Geared towards adults (e.g. Adult Tennis League, Belly Dancing, Aqua Adults); and
Involve the use of premium or purpose-built facilities (e.g. rental of swimming pools and ice arenas).
Level 3: A minimum of 75% of the total operating costs should be covered by user fees.
The Town of Aurora will aim for higher levels of cost recovery for Level 3 recreational facilities, programs and
services given they are:
Advanced or specialty programs (e.g. Robot Builders, Theatre Camp, Latin Way Level 2, Golf Fit);
Utilized by a small subset of the population;
Offered on a private basis (e.g. private 1 on 1 swimming lessons, personal fitness training); and
Generally provided by the private sector.
Figure 1. Town of Aurora Recreational Service Categorization and Minimum Cost Recovery Targets
0% Cost Recovery of total
operating costs
Minimum of 30% Cost
Recovery of total operating
costs – with exceptions*
Minimum of 55% Cost
Recovery of total operating
costs – with exceptions*
Minimum of 75% Cost
Recovery of total operating
costs – with exceptions*
Level 0 Level 1 Level 2 Level 3
Public Parks Introductory/General Preschool
Programs
Intermediate Preschool
Programs or Holiday Events
Advanced/Speciality
Preschool Programs
Public Trails Introductory/General Children’s
Programs
Intermediate Children’s
Programs or Holiday Events
Advanced/Speciality
Children’s Programs
Playgrounds Introductory/General Youth
Programs
Intermediate Youth Programs or
Holiday Events
Advanced/Speciality Youth
Programs
Water Play Spashpads Introductory/General Senior’s
Programs
Intermediate Senior’s Programs
or Holiday Events
Advanced/Speciality Senior’s
Programs
Skateboard and BMX
Facilities
Introductory/General Activity
Camps
Intermediate Camps and
Daycare/Babysitting Services
Advanced/Speciality Camps
Outdoor skating rinks Red Cross Swimming Programs General Adult Programs Advanced/Specialty Adult
Programs
Outdoor tennis courts Recreational Swimming and
Aqua Fitness (all ages)
Semi-Private Swimming Lessons Private Swimming Lessons
Certain community events Public Skating (all ages) Intermediate Adult Swimming
Programs
Private Fitness
Training/Lessons
Certain programs for
special target groups
Parks, Trails and other Public
Open Space
Ice Rental (all ages) Birthday Party Packages
Sponsored Facility Access
(e.g. Tim Horton’s Public
Skate)
Ball Diamond and Soccer Field
Rental (all ages)
Swimming Pool Rental (all ages) Non-resident Fitness
Memberships
Community Space Rental (all
ages
Resident Fitness Memberships Non-resident Artificial Turf
Rental
*Notes:
The minimum cost recovery targets do not include an allocation for Capital Conservation/ Facility Replacement costs.
The Policy recognizes there are circumstances where the minimum cost recovery targets cannot be met in the short to medium-term.
Examples include situations where existing fees would have to be increased by more than 50% in order to reach the minimum target,
fee increases are shown to result in loss of participants and consistent pricing is required within a program series (e.g. swimming
lessons).
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 6 of 11
IBI Group, January 22, 2009 Version – Final Recommended Policy 6
SECTION V: POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS
1. It is intended that a range of recreational services be available to all citizens and that no Aurora
residents shall be excluded from participating in recreational activities because of an inability to pay.
2. User fees are to be calculated to achieve minimum operating cost recovery targets - currently set at
30% for Level 1 activities, 55% for Level 2 activities and 75% for Level 3 activities.
3. The necessary fee increases and additional service fees (e.g. hydro fees for lit soccer fields and ball
diamonds) required to achieve the minimum cost recovery targets are shown in Schedule A. Fee
increases will be phased in over time (2009 onward) or until the minimum cost recovery targets are
met. The fee increases related to achieving cost recovery targets do not include annual inflation rates.
4. The Department of Leisure Services will take into consideration historic pricing when implementing fee
increases to meet cost recovery targets. The Department may tolerate a longer period of transition
(i.e. phased increases) for certain services that have historically had low cost recovery rates (e.g. the
rental of ball diamonds and sports fields, private swimming or fitness lessons).
5. Annually, the Leisure Services Department will prepare cost recovery reports which identify total direct
and indirect costs associated with all recreational activities. These cost recovery reports will be made
available to the Town’s Leisure Services Advisory Committee (LSAC).
6. The categorization of activities and the associated cost recovery targets will be reviewed annually with
due consideration to the operating budget impact and may be adjusted to accommodate changes in
municipal requirements for cost recovery or changes in the market place.
7. The Department of Leisure will make every effort to announce changes in facility rental rates and
permits in advance to allow organizations to make pricing changes to their membership and avoid a
deficit or loss of club resources.
8. Individual Aurora residents and user groups may appeal to the Department of Leisure Services for a
reduction in fees if they can sufficiently demonstrate that the fees charged by the Town are adverse,
restricting/impacting participation.
9. The Department of Leisure Services will continue to monitor the benefits of maintaining an informal
approach to providing subsidies and financial assistance to low-income Aurora households.
10. Facility and equipment rental rates may be offered at a reduced rate in low priority times (e.g. non-
prime time) to encourage greater participation rates and make use of existing City facilities.
11. Department of Leisure Services may waive, reduce fees and alter fees for promotional purposes and to
establish fees for experimental services on an as-required basis.
12. The Town of Aurora may impose a surcharge or charge higher rates for use of its municipal facilities
and services by non-Aurora residents.
13. The Department of Leisure Services may choose not to permit a recreational facility if it is determined
that the amenity is deteriorating because of over use.
14. It is the intent of the Department of Leisure Services to ensure that fees remain competitive with other
recreation and culture service providers in the Town of Aurora and adjacent municipalities.
15. The Department of Leisure Services will continue to investigate potential new sources of revenue (e.g.
grants, partnerships and new programs) and support appropriate funding efforts of groups and
organizations to help offset the costs to the municipality in providing services and operating facilities.
SECTION VI: IMPLEMENTATION
It is the intent that the Department of Leisure Services Recreation Pricing Policy be adopted as a permanent
policy and will be monitored on an annual basis. To allow for better resource planning for both the Town of
Aurora and the users of its recreation services, the Department of Leisure Services shall strive to maintain a
multi-year fee schedule for all its facilities and programs and to gradually phase-in any increases in fees.
J:\20278_Aurora_Rec\10.0 Reports\PTRfinalrecommendedaurorauserfeepolicy2009-01-15.doc\2009-01-15\A
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 7 of 11
LEISURE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE REPORT No. LS09-025
SUBJECT: Pricing Policy
FROM: Allan D. Downey, Director of Leisure Services
DATE: May 21, 2009
,
RECOMMENDATIONS
THAT fees be increased over the next five years for soccer and ball to incorporate
lighting fees in accordance with Staff Report No. LS09-025.
PURPOSE OF THE REPORT
To introduce the Leisure Services Advisory Committee (LSAC) to proposed field user
changes.
BACKGROUND
LSAC has been considering a draft Pricing Policy for several meetings. At the February
19, 2009 LSAC meeting, the following recommendations were presented for Council
approval:
Moved by Michael Levesque Seconded by Ken Whitehurst
THAT the Leisure Services Advisory Committee recommend to Council that the
Final Leisure Services Pricing Policy be referred back to the Director of Leisure
Services; and
THAT the Price Comparison Chart, referenced on page 40 of the agenda, be
reworked with the following changes:
•Remove the percentages
•Remove Aurora from the averages, but, leave in the chart
•Include column for children’s soccer and ball
•Include footnotes as required
•Include the Towns of Ajax and Oakville in the Matrix; and
THAT the Director of Leisure Services be requested to provide options for
implementation of phasing in any decreases and increases; and
…/2
TOWN OF AURORA
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
Page 8 of 11
May 21, 2009 - 2 - Report No. LS09-025 THAT the wording from the “IBI Group” recommendations be included in the policy.
CARRIED
Staff then presented a further Staff Report to the March 23rd, 2009 LSAC meeting in which
the following recommendation to Council was presented:
Moved by Kenneth Whitehurst Seconded by Councillor McRoberts
THAT the Price Comparison Chart be received for information; and
THAT it be recommended to Council that no user fess is to be charged at a level
that goes beyond 100% of the direct and indirect costs to provide the service; and
THAT it be recommended to Council that all ball and soccer price increases are not
to go beyond either the municipal average of comparative municipalities (as
reflected on Page 141 of the Agenda) or the Pricing Policy cost recovery
recommendation of 30%; and
THAT the Ice and Pool fees be set based on a market comparison method analysis
of area municipalities as utilized on page 141 of the Agenda; and
THAT the Director of Leisure Services be requested to provide recommendations to
Leisure Serviced Advisory Committee as to how the increases will be phased in.
CARRIED
Council approved these recommendations on March 10, 2009 and April 14, 2009
respectively.
COMMENTS
Staff have continued to compile information regarding other municipal rates and have now
extracted “lighting fees” from all charges which are present on the following charts:
…/3
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
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May 21, 2009 - 3 - Report No. LS09-025 **Rates are per hour
Municipality Ice
Rate
Soccer
(Adult)
Soccer
(Youth)
Ball
(Adult)
Ball
(Youth)
Pool
(cost excludes
Lifeguard fee)
East Gwillimbury $170.21 $7.02 $5.37 $10.26 $6.53 N/A
Georgina $169.79 $7.50 $7.50 $16.52 $6.04 $11.00 / lane
King $179.00 $4.02 $2.25 $4.02 $2.87 N/A
Markham $182.00 $3.60 $2.05 $3.60 $2.05 $18.08 / lane
Newmarket $175.28 $14.49 $8.33 $14.49 $8.33 $15.50 / lane
Richmond Hill $179.67 $14.00 $7.00 $11.00 $5.50 $18.00 / lane
Vaughan $167.17 $4.10 $4.10 $1.75 $1.75 $9.74 / lane
Whitchurch-Stouffville $175.00 $4.00 $4.00 $4.00 $4.00 $14.33 / lane
Ajax $181.65 $18.00 $12.58 $22.00 $14.00 $15.69 / lane
Oakville $176.04 $7.04 $4.30 $7.04 $4.30 $7.70 / lane (prime) &
$8.94 (non-prime)
Average $175.58 $8.38 $5.75 $9.47 $5.54 $13.91 / lane
Pricing Policy $97.20 $12.25 $12.25 $22.69 $22.69 $5.22 / lane
Aurora $179.03 $6.83 $6.83 $14.23 $9.03 $10.00 / /lane
WITH THE INCLUSION OF LIGHTING FEES:
Municipality Soccer
(Adult)
Soccer
(Youth)
Ball
(Adult)
Ball
(Youth)
East Gwillimbury $16.98 $15.32 $17.30 $13.56
Georgina N/A N/A $19.02 $8.54
King $4.02 $2.25 $4.02 $2.87
Markham $24.60 $13.05 $24.60 $13.05
Newmarket $33.39 $22.12 $33.39 $22.12
Richmond Hill $16.00 $8.00 $15.00 $7.50
Vaughan $14.02 $14.02 $2.78 $2.78
Whitchurch-Stouffville $5.00 $5.00 $5.00 $5.00
Ajax $24.00 $15.00 $27.25 $17.50
Oakville N/A N/A N/A N/A
Average $17.25 $11.85 $16.48 $10.32
Pricing Policy $22.25 $22.25 $32.69 $32.69
In accordance with the Council approved direction, there are two options available to LSAC
for their consideration: Option 1 - exclude lighting fees and Option 2 - include lighting
fees.
Option 1:
Fees for all user groups would remain the same with the exception of Adult soccer, which
we recommend would increase by 10% each year for the next two years. This would
generate additional revenue of $480.00/year for the next two years.
Option 2:
Fees for all field user groups would increase in accordance with Council direction. Staff
recommends that all fees should be at the Council approved level within the next five years
and prior to the next pricing policy review.
…/4
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
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May 21, 2009 - 4 - Report No. LS09-025 In order to accomplish this, the following increases are recommended each year for the
next 5 years:
Adult Soccer $2/yr x 706 hours = = $1,412.00
Youth Soccer $1/yr x 9554 hours = $9,554.00
Adult Ball $0.5/yr x 1653 hours = $826.50
Youth Ball $0.25/yr x 3420 hours = 855.00
ALTERNATIVE(S) TO THE RECOMENDATIONS
1. LSAC may recommend that no fee increases be considered.
2. LSAC may recommend that Option 1 be recommended.
3. LSAC may recommend alternative fee increases..
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS
Option 1: $480 / year for two years = $960.00
Option 2: $12,647.50 / year for five years = $63,237.50
CONCLUSIONS
The price comparison chart clearly indicates that based on average costs, the Town of
Aurora is comparable to the surrounding market. However, when lighting fees are included
and added to the calculations, the Town of Aurora is below the average and as
recommended by the Pricing Policy consultant, should be introduced in the pricing
structure. Staff concur with this recommendation and have presented a five-year phase-in
period in order to address this issue.
ATTACHMENTS
None.
PRE-SUBMISSION REVIEW
Leisure Services Advisory Committee, Thursday, May 21, 2009
Prepared by: Allan D. Downey, Director of Leisure Services- Ext.4752
_________________________________
Allan D. Downey
Director of Leisure Services
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 1
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Page 1 of 1
5.Consent Agenda
Moved by Councillor Humfryes
Seconded by Councillor Thom
C1. General Committee Meeting Report of January 23, 2018
1.That the General Committee meeting report of January 23, 2018, be received
and the following recommendations carried by the Committee approved:
(C5) Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee Meeting
Minutes of November 30, 2017
1.That the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
meeting minutes of November 30, 2017, be received for information.
Carried
Extract from
Council Meeting of
Tuesday, January 30, 2018
Parks, Recreation and Cultural Services Advisory Committee
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, February 15, 2018
Item 2
Page 1 of 1