2024 Annual Report Draft

Vanier Nature Park Garry Oak Restoration and Stewardship Pilot Project The City of Courtenay has entered into a five-year grant fee-for-service agreement with Comox Valley Nature to support the Vanier Nature Park Garry Oak Restoration and Stewardship Pilot Project. Vanier Nature Park was donated to the City by School District 71 in 2014. It remains a passive nature park with an informal trail system. The Parks and Recreation Master Plan (2022) identified the need for a park management plan, including strategies for invasive species management and enhancing and protecting the Garry Oak ecosystem. At the request of Comox Valley Nature, the City is supporting efforts to restore and preserve the Garry Oak forest through invasive species removal and public education programs. Under this agreement, the City will provide grant funding covering up to 50 per cent of the contracted cost for invasive species management over the next five years. This project also presents an opportunity for collaboration with K’ómoks First Nation, incorporating the cultural and historical significance of the Garry Oak grove. As stewards of the land since time immemorial, K’ómoks First Nation’s connection to this ecosystem plays a vital role in shaping educational initiatives and restoration efforts. In January 2024, the City of Courtenay updated the Aquatic Needs Strategy, completing a needs assessment for the Courtenay and District Memorial Outdoor Pool. As part of this process, the City conducted public engagement to gather feedback on potential facility options outlined in the 2023 Aquatic Strategy. Engagement results were consistent with previous findings, reaffirming the Outdoor Pool as a highly valued community asset. Seventy-five per cent of respondents strongly agreed that it remains an important facility. Based on these results and an updated facility assessment, immediate repairs were necessary so the pool could operate for the 2024 season. Council also directed staff to conduct an options analysis to explore long-term solutions for the pool at its current location. The analysis, expected to be completed in 2025, will provide a framework for future decision-making on the facility’s sustainability and development. Aquatic Needs Strategy update and future planning for the Outdoor Pool

75th anniversary of the Outdoor Pool and free swims!

The City of Courtenay celebrated the 75th anniversary of the Courtenay and District Memorial Outdoor Pool at Lewis Park by offering free drop-in public swimming for the entire 2024 summer pool season. Free public swimming for all ages was available during open swim, family swim, adapted swim, length swim and AquaFit. Registration and rental fees remained in place for all swim lessons, kayak programs and private pool rentals. The pool saw 41 school bookings with a total of 1,566 students. Overall, the 75th anniversary celebration was a success, with a 51 per cent increase in attendance in 2024 compared to 2023. The pool continues to benefit from an experienced team, with 13 of 18 staff returning in 2024 from previous years. More information: courtenay.ca/outdoor-pool

Parks and recreation

Swim type

2023

2024

Change

Length

1,168

1,476

+26%

Adapted

308

506

+64%

Aquafit

437

619

+42%

Family

134

392

+193%

Open

8,058

12,293

+53%

Total

11,100

15,286

+51%

Outdoor Pool, Lewis Park

35

City of Courtenay | 2024 Annual Report