Board Meeting Highlights
January 31, 2005
The following information is intended to provide quick highlights of this scheduled Board meeting. Every attempt has been made to summarize these highlights as accurately as possible; however, the complete and official minutes will be posted on the web site on the Monday one week prior to the next scheduled Board meeting.
Meeting Agenda - January 31, 2005
CHAIR'S REPORT
The Chair reported that as of last weekend the completely rebuilt Renfrew Pool is now open again for swimming, with the official opening of the stunning new facility planned in April after the elevator is complete. On January 20th, a sod turning ceremony marked the beginning of construction on the 4,200 ft². addition to Champlain Heights Community Centre. Vancouver Park Board arborists Jody Taylor and Lennox Lobban were honoured in a January 20th commendation ceremony with Vancouver Fire Chief Ray Holdgate for their prompt action in assisting victims of a major house fire in East Vancouver.
GENERAL MANAGER'S REPORT
The General Manager outlined a number of items on Council and Committee agendas this week at the City including: the appointment of the operator for the new #1 Kingsway 'child development hub'; 2005 Operating Budget new initiatives report; and new funding of the Office of Sustainability. A motion to enhance the usability of McBride Park through the closure of Waterloo Street on a six month temporary basis was approved at last Council meeting.
STAFF REPORTS
South East False Creek Official Development Plan
The Board supported approval of the proposed South East False Creek Official Development Plan (ODP) providing a framework for creation of a primarily residential, mixed-use area with waterfront parks, a full sized community centre and non-motorized boating facility . Council is holding a public hearing today on the proposed ODP bylaw for the new 50 acre community which is being planned as a model of financial, economic, social and environmental sustainability. It will also serve as the Athletes' Village for 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
Strategic Plan
The Board approved the release of the draft Strategic Plan 2005 for public discussion. The plan, a high level reference document that states our mission and sets out priorities, valus and direction for the organization, also helps to frame policies and links/informs the work plans of all Park Board divisions and services. New strategic directions include Greening the Park Board, Engaging People, Working Together, Managing Resources and Meeting Future Challenges. Staff were directed to begin a consultation process around the draft plan with our partners, stakeholders, staff and the general public. Board approval of the new Strategic Plan is anticipated in April.
Fruit Trees in Parks and Public Areas
The Board received an information report on growing fruit trees in parks, and requested staff report back in four months on the plan to realize opportunities as outlined in the staff report. Planting fruit trees in public spaces offer environmental, educational and community benefits. In 2005, Park Board staff will continue researching suitable varieties; the Langley Tree Farm will grow small trees for future planting; six trees will be planted as part of development at Slocan Park; in parks, staff will include planting of low maintenance trees with food potential (eg walnuts); in support of and with the Food Policy Council and Social Planning, staff will develop and implement educational outreach programs; and staff will provide public information regarding location of fruit trees in parks.
Landscape Architects World Congress
The Park Development Manager, Kate Davis-Johnson, was approved to attend the World Congress of International Federation of Landscape Architects in Edinburgh, Scotland in June. This educational and business conference offers an exchange of ideas, experience and information with professionals from around the world. City and park related presentations will include environmental challenges, population expansions and safety.
NEXT MEETING
The next regular meeting of the Park Board is at 7:00 pm on Monday, February 14th at 2099 Beach Avenue.
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