2024 Annual Report Draft

Parks and recreation

Dingwall Steps, Courtenay

Parks and recreation Courtenay’s parks, trails and recreational system — encompassing programs, and indoor and outdoor facilities — serves as a vital connector. It links people to each other, the natural world and the history and practices of the K’ómoks First Nation. It also supports active transportation and connects ecosystems across the city and region.

Strategic Priorities 2023–2026

Status

Notes

The new Amenity Cost Contribution bylaw, introduced under Bills 44 and 45, will regulate the provision of public amenities for parks and recreation through development at the time of subdivision or building permit issuance. This work will be done as part of the update to the Development Cost Charges (DCC) Bylaw. A facility needs assessment will identify capital improvements to enhance how the Florence Filberg Centre serves Courtenay’s recreational, cultural and community needs. This initiative will be informed by recommendations from the Strategic Cultural Plan and conducted alongside the cultural facilities feasibility studies scheduled for 2025. With condition assessments complete, the City began necessary repairs to the Outdoor Pool in 2024; this work is ongoing. An options analysis will be conducted in 2025 to determine the future of the pool at its current location and how to enhance its functionality. Public feedback will play a key role in shaping this analysis and informing the decision-making process. The detailed design phase for the selected option is planned for later in 2025. The City is planning to develop a Recreation Strategic Plan to define the vision, goals and objectives for Courtenay Recreation based on community engagement, demographic trends and evolving demands. This plan will guide future program and facility needs, ensuring the City's recreational offerings remain relevant and responsive to community priorities.

Advocate to the province for new Development Cost Charge (DCC) eligibility for recreation and emergency services.

In progress

Florence Filberg Centre needs assessment and capital improvements.

Planned - delayed to 2025

Courtenay and District Memorial Outdoor Pool needs assessment and capital improvements.

In progress

Review recreation programs and engage with community on current and future needs, and changing demographics.

Ongoing - delayed to 2025

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City of Courtenay | 2024 Annual Report